Coffs Coast Focus i113

John Rafferty

February 2020 issue 113

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Welcome to the February issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS .

his month we present to you our 2020 Regional Wedding Showcase. February, the month of love and eight months out from the traditional commencement of wedding season means this is a timely feature for the wedding industry, to showcase what they have to offer future brides. Do you recognise our gorgeous bride and groom on our front cover? Tamzin Shotbolt and Beau Gibson are seriously the cutest couple ever. Big thanks to everyone behind the scenes. Hair and makeup by Daisy Moroney from Outpost Hair, Dress by RSVP Bridal and Suit from Connor Park Beach Plaza. We also can’t thank Darren Northey and his son Jade enough for lending us their space to use as a studio, Dark Arts Bar & Brew. Speaking of LOVE, make sure you check out our most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes on

page 36. Hopefully we can play cupid and find them their perfect match! Inside this Edition Cheryl Ward has shared her story of how she was inspired by the people of Haiti to take action and try to help those affected by poverty. Together with other members of the local community they have created Frontier Projects, which is doing amazing things both at home and overseas to assist those in need. Gail Raymond has always volunteered time to help others throughout her life, and currently she is working with the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, amongst other things. She is a caring, familiar face to most who have had to spend time there, and she is selfless in the amount of energy she puts into providing support to those going through a difficult time. The Rocket Man is Coming to Town!

We’re getting ready to welcome all Tiny Dancers to the Coffs Coast! The countdown is on to roll out the Yellow Brick carpet for the legendary Rocket Man, and greet his fabulous fans from near and far. Get Crocodile Rockin’ with our top tips for one, three, or five days on the beautiful Coffs Coast. There are still tickets available; visit: www.premier.ticketek.com.au Women in Business - Next Month Our special Women in Business edition allows local leaders, managers, and workers to step out in front of their brand, and celebrate the amazing work they do within their business. It’s the perfect combination of advertisements and interviews. If you would like to be part of this feature or know someone who has a great business story, please call on 6650 9343. “Don’t judge the picture by the frame; every man is not the same” - Elton John.

Wishing upon a star? Let Mercedes-Benz Australia's New Vehicle Sales Consultant Of The Year Lachlan Brown assist you with your new car purchase. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. You know that you will get the right advice & friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration our range of motor vehicles today.

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au LMD3461 Coffs Coast focus 3

contents feature

41

the Usual

Suspects

Issue 113 - February 2020

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a special

COFFS COAST WEDDING GUIDE

Cameron Pollard Cameron Pollard is a local young man who has grown up around the golf course with his father. He has become very passionate about the game and now plays competitively, with the hope of one day playing professionally ...

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Cheryl Ward Cheryl Ward has shared her story of how she was inspired by the people of Haiti to take action and try to help those affected by poverty. Together with other members of the local community, they have created Frontier Projects, which is doing amazing things both at home and overseas to assist those in need.

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Caroline Laine

09. FROM THE ARCHIVES with Kev Smith 14. WHAT’S ON for February

When Caroline met Timo, she knew there was something special between them, and after a surprise proposal they tied the knot on a property in Bellingen, surrounded by their grown kids, family and friends.

34. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 40. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss 67. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 74. EDUCATION with Nick Johnstone 78. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman

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82. ABODE Property Guide 90. REAL ESTATE with Amanda Langlands

Rebecca Goodenough Rebecca Goodenough is a passionate local teacher who is striving to inspire her students to enjoy their learning, and she is determined to always find new and exciting ways of delivering content to her class. She clearly loves her job and is an asset to our community.

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JOHN

RAFFERTY FOURTEEN YEARS AGO, JOHN R AFFERTY WAS APPOINTED AS CEO OF THE

COFFS EX SERVICES MEMORIAL AND SPORTING CLUB LTD, KNOWN TODAY AS C.EX GROUP. FOCUS CHATTED WITH JOHN, TO FIND OUT MORE … hat is the history behind the C.ex Days, sporting events, major entertainment, the arts, cultural and Group? community programs both financially and in-kind, as well as members The history behind the club is that it was of our team’s involvement with the organisation and assistance for founded 70 years ago by a committee of people in our community when we have had floods and fires. interested ex-servicemen, who wanted to We also have the C.ex Community Crew, who are members of our build a Memorial Club to honour the service team that volunteer their own time to assist the community. personnel from WWI and WWII. The original concept plans were for a What are you most passionate about when it comes to the small single-storey building with a small hall, living room, library, bar, C.ex Group community? kitchen and two small rooms of accommodation for the caretaker, I am most passionate about the C.ex Community Crew and the and they were to include memorial baths the size of an Olympic Pool. sleepout event at C.ex Coffs International Stadium, where many How has your business evolved since it began? individuals in our community sleepout overnight in June to recognise The business has evolved from being the Coffs Harbour and District the problem of homelessness and to raise funds for the Warrina Ex Servicemen and Women’s Memorial Women’s Refuge and the Men’s Resource Club - a small building in 1949, where Centre in Coffs Harbour. the tireless work and vision of its How important is the culture of the founding members laid the foundation club and its people? The most satisfying aspect of my role is working for the ongoing developments we see The culture of the club and its people with a good board, management and today. The club amalgamated with the are paramount in ensuring a viable team of people that all strive to create a Coffs Harbour Bowling Club in 1989, and sustainable future, where we treat safe, friendly environment, who embed the Woolgoolga Bowling Club in 2001 everybody with respect regardless of their a positive legacy with an emphasis to and the Urunga Golf and Sports Club background or position; our integrity provide our members, their guests and in 2008, and the club then traded as demands that we uphold high standards visitors with a wonderful experience when they visit the C.ex Group encompassing the (3) of behaviour with a deep respect for one of our premises. premises: C.ex Coffs, C.ex Woolgoolga honesty. We strive for good commercial and C.ex Urunga. The group has always outcomes, but always take the needs of been community focused, whilst our stakeholders into account, so that maintaining a strong business vision everyone in our team is fully committed to through the acquisition of properties in Harbour Dr and Elizabeth St the group’s goals and we are selfless as we support and care for each for future development. other. What is your greatest achievement? What plans do you have for the future of the club? The development and growth of the C.ex Group’s culture, where all The plans the board and management have for the future of the the wonderful people in our team are valued and recognised through club is to ensure that we nurture club culture, we build financial the creation of opportunities in the different areas of our business, strength and to make a difference in the community. along with the recognition of the C.ex Group brand that is trusted We are also looking at several developments that will include hotel and a leader in our industry. accommodation, apartments, entertainment and retail space across What is the most satisfying aspect of your role? the group. The most satisfying aspect of my role is working with a good board, What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? management and team of people, that all strive to create a safe, Living on the Coffs Coast is like living in paradise; you only have friendly environment who embed a positive legacy with an emphasis to look at the wonderful infrastructure and facilities we have for a to provide our members, their guests and visitors with a wonderful regional city, with the airport, university, hospital, stadium and the experience when they visit one of our premises. future developments proposed for the city centre in a wonderful What does C.ex Group bring to the community, and what role climate, with beautiful beaches, fantastic hinterland and two have you played? outstanding golf courses, being Coffs Harbour and Bonville Golf The C.ex Group has played a major role in our community Resort. We are all very fortunate to live on the Coffs Coast. through the sponsorship of ANZAC, Long Tan and Remembrance Thanks John.

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Cameron

Cameron Pollard is a local young man who has grown up around the golf course with his father. HE HAS BECOME VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT THE GAME AND NOW PLAYS COMPETITIVELY, WITH THE HOPE OF ONE DAY PLAYING PROFESSIONALLY. Cameron lives with Autism as well as a disorder that affects his joints and a disease that affects his bowel, and he says that golf has given him opportunities and incentive to travel, and to make friendships that will last a lifetime.

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ey Cameron. Where did I see a hobby as something you do to your love of golf begin? socialise; I play golf because I want to get better When my dad used and become a professional. to take me to the golf You have competed in some really high course when I was a baby, pressure tournaments. What do you do to he would put me in the keep the nerves away whilst competing? biggest pocket of his golf bag or in the basket I don’t have any particular routines; I just on the golf cart! So, I've always been around stand up and hit the ball. golf for as long as I can What challenges have remember. you had to overcome to Do you spend a lot of play golf? time at the golf club? I live with Autism, Elhers Being able to train, What do you do there? Danlos Syndrome and compete and socialise with Yes, I am at the club Hirshsprungs Disease; these other athletes who were six days per week either conditions impact my life on similar to me had such practicing, helping out in a daily basis. a positive impact. I have the pro shop or playing in I can be very anxious made lifelong friendships the competitions. and suffer with debilitating and had opportunities to How often do you panic attacks without travel the world with the practice and play? warning. My diet is game of golf. I play in three extremely restricted to pasta competitions a week, with cheese, hot chips Tuesday, Saturday and and a white bread cheese Sunday and practice on Wednesday, Thursday sandwich. I enjoy sticking to my weekly routine and Fridays. and can be upset if things don’t happen like When was the turning point for you they are scheduled. People who know me well from playing golf as a hobby into playing describe me as being brutally honest. Some competitively? people don’t appreciate my comments and will

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be offended; I see it as just saying it how it is. EDS is a connective tissue disorder, so my joints have a predisposition to dislocate. In the last three years I have had both of my knees reconstructed. Due to the Hirshsprungs Disease I had a large portion of my bowel removed as a baby, and this is managed through a Cecostomy CHAIT button. What have been some career highlights for you? As outlined below, but getting to meet my idol, Ricki Fowler at the President Cup last year was pretty awesome! Dec 2019 ISPS Handa Disabled Cup, Royal Melbourne GC, Team Australia. Dec 2019 Australian All Abilities Championships, The Australian GC, T10th. Oct 2019 New Zealand Amputee & Disability Open, Maraenui GC, 1st. April 2019 Macau Golf Masters, Caesars GC, 1st. March 2019 Queensland Inclusive Championships, Redcliff GC, 2nd.

Nov 2018 ISPS World Disabled Cup, Metropolitan GC, Team Australia. Nov 2018 Australian All Abilities Championships, The Lakes GC, 5th. June 2018 Club Championships, Sawtell GC, 1st. Can you tell us about your experience with the Special Olympics? I started with the North Coast Special Olympics in 2012; being able to train, compete and socialise with other athletes who were similar to me had such a positive impact. I have made lifelong friendships and had opportunities to travel the world with the game of golf. What do you love most about the game? There is not one particular part of the game; I just love playing. Have you set any more goals for yourself in the game moving forward? Ultimately I would love to turn professional, but in the meantime win more competitions and lower my ranking on the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD), current ranking #21 https://www.wagr.com/wr4gdranking Thanks Cameron.

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WITH KEV SMITH

FIRES Our whole area seems to be alight with fires for the past month with no end in sight. Unfortunately some of our native trees need fires to burst their seed pods open for a new life, BUT it also knocks around our history. You see, back in the day before steel and alloy, timber was the main source of material for infrastructure and buildings, right down to solid timber foundations.

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he old timers knew what timber to use and exactly how to use it. Even out west on our travels there are still heritage listed timber stake fences, as they used the tough timber so that white ants would leave it alone. Around here a lot of iron bark was used for its tough qualities and surplus amounts around the hills. It was used for bridge spans, tough building foundations and much more and if you

know where to look, some of these old bridges are still standing today. Mind you, the tops are wearing away from constant traffic and where other timber was used, but the main supporting and structural beams are still there. Just on a side note, we checked out an old suspension bridge west of Wauchope a little time ago which is all timber, and the four main poles must be 100 foot high that give strength to the bridge. Today, it’s the oldest single lane suspension bridge still in

use in Australia and you can drive a car across. Because of the limited resources back 100 years ago, timber was used, but it comes with a use by date; throw in high rainfall, termites and weathering, and the life span soon deteriorates. Today as we speak, fires are raging around the area, where we have irreplaceable heritage and history. Along with the old bridges, buildings and even sections of forest with stands of massive trees, there are huts. These huts were once homes for many families, storekeepers, workers and even drovers around our coast; they were our pioneers, and we should be proud. Our fire fighters do a bloody awesome job; protecting these structures is not on their priority list, and nor should it be. Fires are part of our natural history, but unfortunately with the lack of clean ups in our forests, we will lose more of what we have. I have come across a plethora of goods in the bush but due to regulations, we cannot remove items. From timber wheels, timber frames and structures, thin signs and much more, it will most probably be lost by the time the forests are open again. It’s a shame that these items can’t be removed, tagged and then be taken to our local museum for display purposes, and even some of the machinery that has been left behind needs to be removed. Now I know thick steel doesn’t burn, but during and after a fire, and even at times of drought - branches, ash and other matter falls on the forgotten history, and it gets harder to find and discover. Currently there is no policy for

relics in the bush, as I was told it’s a grey area so it gets avoided, but just think about how good it would be to have these large items in the yard of our museum or a centre piece inside with old photos and a write up on its origin. We have some amazing history in the hills around the Coffs Coast and it soon will be gone, as it’s now only accessible to those who have a 4WD and the knowledge of where to find it. Sometimes it takes a super human walk along old creek beds or through thick forest areas. I know of some relics that have been found and dated back to the turn of the century, like plates and coins in some of the old shanty gold towns that were scattered in the hills, old belt buckles and the steel caps from boots nailed to the outside with hand made nails - they may only be little, but it’s all important. We have been to abandoned gold mines and found old boots and tools, broken steel casings, nuts and bolts off stampers and boilers, right down to bottles dating back to the ‘40s, but left them there as a mark of respect and hope others do the same. It’s a shame that groups don’t have the permission (and I have tried to gain this) to go in and clear these sites, just so they can be preserved a little longer, but the legalities will alway rear its ugly head with safety regulations. Fires are hard to control, as sparks can fly for miles in the air and before long another blaze will start. All we can do is hope the fires don’t affect our precious history, that seems to be hanging on by a shoestring.

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Cheryl Cheryl Ward has shared her story of how she was inspired by the people of Haiti to take action and try to help those affected by poverty. Together with other members of the local community here they have created Frontier Projects, which is doing amazing things both at home and overseas to assist those in need.

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lease tell us how you came to be involved with Frontier Projects Inc. In 2011, I’d just returned from a life-changing, volunteer solo-trip to Haiti - a nation that was still reeling from the aftermath of the 2010 magnitude-7.0 earthquake that left millions homeless ... a nation where most children still suffer daily from lack of access to food, clean water, safe living conditions and educational opportunities. As a secondary teacher (mostly on the Coffs Coast), and as a mum, I had long felt the heart-spirit-pull to help make a difference in the lives of children suffering from lack of access to these basic, vital needs. I witnessed children suffering from malnutrition and disease, and many at risk of being relinquished to orphanages as the only way for parents to feed them, or at worst, at real risk of being trafficked. I’d lived with and fallen in love with the Haitian people, and on my return was determined, with my husband John, that we had to do something. We knew we had to become a registered charity. Jenny and Trevor Gosling (Gosling Electrical) had just launched Frontier Projects Inc. We were great friends, with a similar passion for “frontier projects”. F.P.I. was registered in 2012, and the journey

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began. families join us to fund Why was it so our admin costs, and I’D LIVED WITH AND important for you we also hold a range of FALLEN IN LOVE WITH on a personal level fundraising events each THE HAITIAN PEOPLE, to become part of year. AND ON MY RETURN such a charitable How big is the team at WAS DETERMINED, organisation? Frontier Projects? And WITH MY HUSBAND I love that F.P.I. has in what parts of the JOHN, THAT WE HAD been launched out of world do you all work? TO DO SOMETHING. our local community Our Frontier Projects with a small number management team is just of other like-minded five local families - serving local volunteers, four nations, including passionate to make a difference in vulnerable our own. Jenny and Trev Gosling have a communities both here in our local region and team serving in New Britain, New Guinea. in communities overseas. I love that we are all Dr Bruce and Sue-Ellen Watts and Steve and dedicated to empowering leaders in their own Rosie Brown in Thailand. John and I with my communities to “be the solution”. We consult brother, Dave Moye, have a team that serves with communities and develop programs with into the nation of Haiti and our ambassador them that will help meet a huge range of their is a local legend, Michael Crossland. Mike is identified needs. an extraordinary humanitarian, travelling the Frontier Projects is slightly different from world as a motivational speaker, supporting other charities and ensures that 100% of children’s charities in Australia and world-wide all proceeds go directly to communities; and encouraging thousands through his own can you tell us how this works? stories of resilience and determination against Yes, being a smaller organisation means all the odds! that we have fewer overheads, and we are You spend much of your time in Haiti. committed to “sending every cent” for those What is it about this part of the world that that partner with us to sponsor children, has inspired you to help? teachers and parents. Our core teams and I’d always been a passionate supporter of

charities standing up against the trafficking of children. I also believe in the power of education to help transform lives. Then I heard about Haiti. A tiny nation in the Caribbean, Haiti still suffers from being one of the world’s top seven nations in the trafficking of children. I also believe in the power of education to help transform lives. More than 50% of the children in Haiti don’t ever get the opportunity to go to school, and I felt that this might be an area where I could help. But the people were my inspiration. Resilient. Spiritually strong. It was a spirit-heart choice for me to help become a part of their solutions. What are some of the main problems you have encountered in Haiti, and how are you and members of the Haiti team tackling them? In the world of aid and charity work, the truth remains that good intentions can be dangerous. Just giving funds, material goods or food can be generous and often initially essential but unfortunately, this type of aid never addresses the root issues of poverty. If not accompanied by long-term social and educational programs, this type of aid can easily cause an unhealthy dependence on the giver. Our Haiti team partners with leaders in the poorest sectors of Port-au-Prince and works with them to see a range of child and

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Bookkeepers, Accountants, Business Advisors, BAS & Tax Agents… and now throw in Cloud Consultants. Who are all these people and who exactly does what? Which ones do you need to help you with your business?

family welfare and education and training programs grown and sustained. Another huge problem is the vulnerability of children from remote mountain areas being abducted and trafficked as they trek to and from their nearest school. I knew that was where I could start - that we needed to help to build a school for these children in their own community and train and employ Haitian teachers. Over the years we have assisted Bouvier Mountain community to build their own school, with four classrooms, 160 children, teacher accommodation, a school farm and kitchen for the feeding program, and we have installed solar electricity. As of 2019, we now employ eight Haitian teachers and the school has won national awards! Orphanages still exist in certain countries, including Haiti. Why do we still see orphanages in countries like Haiti, and what can be done to minimise the need for orphanages?’ There are at least 30,000 children living in orphanages in Haiti. It is a staggering number, but even more shocking is that most of them are not orphans. The government estimates 80 percent of the children living in orphanages have at least one living parent. In many cases, parents themselves are placing their children in institutions, because they cannot afford to care for them. Parents believe their children will be better off in an orphanage, where they will be fed, cared for, and sent to school. Unfortunately, that is not often the case. Beginning in a small way, our F.P Haiti team is working with an amazing Haitian,

Pastor Reginald Celestin, at community and governmental level, to lead the way by returning our orphans and displaced children in Carrefour, back into their family homes. With the tremendous support of our ambassador, Michael Crossland, we have already reunited over 30 children back into their own homes! We THERE ARE AT now provide food and LEAST 30,000 welfare support through CHILDREN LIVING IN sponsorship for whole ORPHANAGES IN HAITI. families, educational to vocationally train IT IS A STAGGERING opportunities for their and equip parents in NUMBER, BUT EVEN children and vocational order to provide for and MORE SHOCKING IS training for parents! This support their children THAT MOST OF THEM was so revolutionary for in the future. Our initial ARE NOT ORPHANS. Haiti that in 2017, our training program focused programs incorporating on jewellery making. the work with Reginald In 2019, Ben came Celestin was featured on CNN’s Freedom with us on a Frontier Journey, and then he Project: frontierprojects.org/cnnfp and Jas offered to partner with us to create What is one of your success stories to the vocational sewing program. The From come out of Haiti since being there? Zion team have helped to supply machines, There are so many, including Bouvier School material and accessories and employment and Love Community Home, but last year for our qualified Haitian tutor: Sandra Alexis! was a highlight, when we launched our first The course is now underway and these single vocational sewing program for parents in Love mums - many who never finished school Community, Carrefour. This was made possible themselves - are loving learning and also being by the support of Coffs locals Ben and Jasmin supported into a loving and caring community. Adams, who own an ethical online clothing You also help locally as well. What are company: fromzion.com some things your charity does here on the In January 2018, we had partnered Coffs Coast? with Reginald Celestin to launch “Libellule Our F.P. Aus team is passionate about Training Academy” in Carrefour - to be able supporting those who may be struggling in

our own community. We partner with local and national charities to support families that are experiencing food insecurity, by delivering food parcels and assist in bringing children and families into supportive, social welfare and educational programs. Where can people learn more about Frontier Projects, and how can they help? Just email us at info@frontierprojects.org or jump on our website: frontierprojects.org to read more of our stories. Want to sponsor a child, parent, teacher into life-transforming education or training? Or radically change a child’s life by sponsoring them into their own family? Maybe you’d like to come with us on a Haiti team journey - to work with our in-country partners on practical projects that empower them to change the life-stories of their children, their families and their communities? Thanks Cheryl. Photo Credit: Jason Moye, Ben Adams, David Moye. Coffs Coast focus 11

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Heidi B R E T T

Heidi Brett is the owner of Uniqe Collections, formerly known as Vast Interiors in Coffs Harbour and is someone who has formed strong connections with the community here. Whether it be through her business, her time as a teacher, or her time spent working with animals, many locals know Heidi (and most likely her dog Franki as well) and we thought it was high time we had a chat with her about her history here on the Coffs Coast, and her hopes for the future.

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ey Heidi. You have spent most of your life here on the Coffs Coast; how has it changed over the years? Life has changed in many ways over the years; I’ve had a varied career life, which has seen me leave a teaching career eight years ago and take a huge leap of faith into small business ownership. Whilst rather different, the fundamental principles in all of my careers have been the same: HONESTY, INTEGRITY AND TO BE KIND. Whether working with students, animals or customers and staff, I have realised the way you approach a situation determines the outcome. If we are talking Coffs Harbour, then it really was a small, friendly, country town when I was a kid. Sawtell wasn’t connected to Coffs Harbour by Hogbin Drive and if you came into Coffs Harbour, it was a full day trip! Some of my earliest memories of going into Coffs Harbour was a visit to Fosseys in the main street; they had a counter in the centre that you walked around and at the front door an ice cream and lolly bar (I was devastated when they closed down). It was followed by a trip to COX Bros, where Mum had me write the price on the items with a thick black marker - talk about an honesty system! You don’t see that anymore. Then scones or sandwiches in what I think was the CWA Hall where the car park for Woolworth’s is, and if I was really lucky the day would finish off with the car wash at the BP; you know the ones with the big roller brushes? What a day! Coffs has grown from a small town to a bustling city. I still find it friendly, and I still LOVE living here. I’ve always thought Coffs was the forgotten gem on the coast, always playing second fiddle to Byron, Port Macquarie and the Gold Coast and to be truthful, I was happy with that! I mean, who doesn’t love having the beach to yourself or visiting some of the amazing waterfalls in our hinterland and not seeing another soul all day? But alas, I think the secret is out and people are realising just how beautiful the Coffs Coast is and although we may lose some of our peace and quiet in the busy holiday times, the end result will be a benefit for our community both in jobs and infrastructure. On the topic of change, you have made a few big changes in your life recently. Can you tell us about those? Well, where do I start! I have rebranded my business and sold my family home of 20 years

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- a massive downsize moving from a castle to a small farm cottage. This was a rather emotional time for our family, as selling our home stirred many emotions, BUT was also a cathartic exercise in letting go and moving forward. My beautiful son married the love of his life in the middle of all this, so it’s been a “season of change”, but one that I am loving. Your business has had a bit of a change-up recently. What made you decide to do this? The owners of VAST had decided to restructure and move in a different direction, and I was given an opportunity to opt out - which I took, as it’s given me more freedom and flexibility to be creative with my stock selections and business direction. Whilst rather different, the I love sourcing furniture fundamental principles in all of and homewares, feeling my careers have been the same. the texture of a piece, HONESTY, INTEGRITY the weight, checking the AND TO BE KIND. Whether is invaluable. On a more colour and comfort of working with students, animals or personal level, I can a piece. I’m so looking customers and staff I have realized create relationships with forward to being able to the way you approach a situation manufacturers and debring in an eclectic mix of determines the outcome. velop trusted friendships products and styles that is whilst doing business different and UNIQ from on the other side of the anything you will find at world. another retailer. This will allow me to change Anyone who has visited you in store has the product mix on the floor on a regular basis. probably met “Uniq’s mascot” Franki, your I want people to explore in store or on social cute little pooch. Can you tell us how media, where they can be inspired and where I Franki came into your life and about the can interact and help on a personal level. response she gets from customers? With the transition from Vast to Uniq “The little lady who has stolen so many Collective, what have been some of the hearts” ... five years ago I had lost a pet and it biggest changes, and what can we look was time to find a new friend. I was forward to heading into the future? actually wanting a mini dachshund but went An exciting development is being able to and looked at some puppies my mum knew incorporate other like-minded businesses in the about in Coffs … And, well, the rest is history! I same location, a destination and a collection fell in love with little Franki and home she came of beautiful businesses under the one roof; it’s with me. very exciting. I’m overwhelmed that I have the If I’m at work, Franki is at work. I have kids beautiful Stephanie Edgell opening her shop who make their parents visit just to see Franki; “Second Romance” filled with exquisite preI have older customers who have lost a pet loved fashion in store. I have a couple of other and decided to not get another one because ideas that are in the works, but you will just of their age, make appointments to come in to have to watch this space! visit Franki. But my favourite thing is when a Your products come from different places customer, child or adult, who is terrified of dogs around the globe. We hear you are also will come and pat Franki; that just makes my quite the traveller. How does travelling and heart sing! She really is a therapy dog; young, your business connect? old, man or woman, she shares the love. Every There is a distinct connection between my business should have a puppy like Franki to play travel and our “UNIQ COLLECTION” of prodwith, in case you or your customers are having ucts. Being able to look at products in the flesh a really bad day. to gauge the quality, size, colour and comfort

Your love of animals has been a lifelong one; we believe you spent some time working at the RSPCA. When did your love of animals begin, and how did you come to be at the RSPCA? Animals are and always will be a part of my life. My time spent at the RSPCA was a wonderful chapter, whilst the work was at times sad. I decided to not focus on those parts and to put my energy into rehousing (I lived on the premises and many friends and family went home with a new pet after visiting) and improving the health of neglected animals. Not many people may know this, but you’re quite the performer and had spent some time in theatre and melodrama here on the Coffs Coast. What was that decade like for you, and is there any chance of a return? Life has been a wonderful adventure for me. You wouldn’t know it, but yes, I am quite the performer. Learning to say, “Yes! I’ll have a crack at that” has rewarded me with some “UNIQ” and delightful fun. Melodramas provided another creative outlet in my life whilst being a busy mother, wife and teacher. I think the secret to happiness is to have balance, take risks, don’t be afraid to fail and to definitely enjoy the ride. I wouldn’t ever rule out a return to the stage, but for now my focus is on my business and keeping the same high quality customer service, and moving into the new decade with confidence. Thanks Heidi.

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www.ohanaelc.com.au

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

F E B R U A R Y

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A Celebration Of The Superstars Of Country Then And Now

Two of Australia’s most popular and loved singing stars, Hayley Jensen and Jason Owen, come together for the first time in a spectacular new two hour showcase, featuring songs from the biggest country music superstars of our time, both then and now, as well as performing hit songs from their own successful, multi-award winning careers.

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Tim Maddren Me & My shadow

Amidst dim light and with drink in hand, enjoy well known stage and TV entertainer Tim Maddren, in his salute to the great saloon singers; FRANK SINATRA, SAMMY DAVIS JR. and BOBBY DARIN. With cabaret seating and the many well-known tunes performed, the Jetty Theatre will be transformed into an intimate crooning saloon. When 14th and 15th February. Where Jetty Theatre. Tickets www.jettytheatre.com

BWN Networking Event

Join us for a panel discussion on Good Health = Good Business. Start the new decade by taking the time to consider what you would like to focus on to improve your health and wellbeing. After all, people are the greatest asset any business has.

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When Thursday 6th February. Where Opal Cove Resort. Time 7am to 8:45am. More info Coffs Coast BWN Facebook page.

Valentine’s Day at Velvets Restaurant

When 1st February. Where Sawtell RSL. Tickets $35 from www.sawtellrsl.com.au

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with that special someone at the Coffs Coast’s number one winery, Velvets Restaurant Two Tails Wines, Nana Glen. Enjoy a set menu for two under the stars overlooking the Orara Valley.

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When 14th February. Where Two Tails Wines, Nana Glen. Time from 5:30pm. To book Call 6654 3633.

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Summer Beach Hopp

Coffs Harbour will come alive to the site and sounds of yesteryear, as the biggest little retro festival gets underway. Summer Beach Hop 2020 features two bands, as Sixties Invasion from Sydney teams up with local band The Drive Ins. Plus, there’s a classic car display - pre 1979. When 1st February. Where Jetty Foreshore. Cost GA $20.50; VIP $39.80. Tickets www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=583993&

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Damien Leith A Tribute to Roy Orbison with Strings

2020 marks the golden anniversary of legendary Roy Orbison and Joe Melson’s classic hit, Only the Lonely and to celebrate, Damien Leith will perform a strictly limited run of dates of his stage show, Roy - A Tribute to Roy Orbison with Strings. Leith has a very close affiliation and connection with the Big O, having recorded and worked with the late Barbara Orbison and continues to write with legends that worked with Roy Orbison regularly in Nashville. When 8th February. Where Jetty Theatre Cost $60. Tickets: www.jettytheatre.com.au

Elton John Farewell Yellow Brick Road The countdown is on to roll out the Yellow Brick carpet for the legendary Rocket Man, and greet his fabulous fans from near and far. Get Crocodile Rockin’ with our top tips for one, three, or five days on the beautiful Coffs Coast … When 25th and 26th January. Where C.ex International Stadium. Tickets www.premier.ticketek.com.au

with Madonna Bannerman from Two Tails Wines

wine month of the

ORARA ROSE SPARKING

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Black Hop’s Tropic Like It’s Hot Fresh and ice-cold on the taps (and in cans as well) at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip, is this amazing little summer limited release from one of Australia’s best craft breweries, Black Hops. Made for these sunny, warm, humid days, it’s a pineapple, lemongrass and ginger sour that will have your mouth watering with every sip. An absolute summer must-try!

ubbly, vibrant and sweet with delicate lingering berry flavours, Orara Rose Sparkling is perfect for celebrations and summertime fun. Grown and sold at the newly renovated Two Tails Winery at Nana Glen, this wine depicts the diversity and innovation of the vineyard. Made from hand-picked parcels of Chambourcin grapes, delicately carbonated, creating a wine with balanced acidity and sweet notes of strawberries and red berries. This is a bright and delicately sweet refreshing sparkling wine; serve chilled. CHARACTERISTICS: Bright ruby red in colour, showing defined notes of strawberry and berry aromas with a hint of vanillin oak. Light and bubbly on the palate, with flavours of crushed ripe strawberries and summer cherry notes, which is well balanced with a refreshing citrus, sweet finish. GOES WITH: This demi-sec sparkling red can partner well with sweeter dishes, spicy foods and flavoursome Asian and Indian foods, light desserts such as strawberry mousse, and sweet fresh fruits with soft

cheese. Served chilled as an aperitif for any occasion. COST: $34. AVAILABLE: Two Tails Winery cellar door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen. PHONE: 6654 3633. OPEN: seven days a week. Call in at the winery and experience our friendly customer service and taste our unique varieties of white and red, sparkling and fortified wines. Stay awhile and enjoy our delicious cheese platters and relax overlooking the vineyard. You’ll be back for more! EMAIL: admin@twotailswines.com.au WEB: www.twotailswines.com.au

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focusinterview.

Coffs Solar Energy was established here on the Coffs Coast in January 2010. The company traded under the name of Self Sufficient Homes for three years, before the decision was made to register the trading name of Coffs Solar Energy to better tie in our commitment to servicing the local region. FOCUS had a chat with Mark McClurg, Managing Director …

Celebrating 10 years servicing the Coffs Coast

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i Mark. Congratulations on celebrating 10 successful years in business on the Coffs Coast. What is the history behind Coffs

Solar Energy? Our company was established on the 18th January 2010. We initially traded under our company name “Self Sufficient Homes”; however, we were picking up quite a few new-build enquiries (obviously) so we made the decision to register the trading name of “Coffs Solar Energy” in May 2013, and that’s been us ever since. We started with just three employees and have now grown to a team of 15. Over the last 10 years, our company has installed more than 2,600 solar energy systems along the Coffs Coast! Tell us about your team and their area of expertise? We are very fortunate that we have 15 very qualified and experienced employees in our business. The roles vary across all aspects of our operation, from our solar electricians, roof technicians and electrical apprentices, through to our designers, technical staff and office administration. I believe the most important aspect is that we work well as a team from start to finish, as there is a smooth collaboration between departments. What have been some of the highlights over the years? Our biggest highlight to date was being

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nominated as a finalist in the Clean Energy Council Design Awards for 2019 in the category 40 kW - 240 kW for our 165 kW Pacific Marina Apartments project. This was a magnificent project and one which we are very proud of. How important is customer service in your industry? Clients need to be kept in the loop; they need to be able to reach you easily and have their enquiry dealt with quickly. Customer service is about the unexpected - the unexpected update call, the unexpected follow-up call. I believe that we have got it right, which is why we have maintained a five star rating on Google with over 100 reviews. Tell us about some new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. We are very proud of our workmanship, and we know that we provide our clients with a superior installation to that of our competitors. We now want to document our workmanship with a series of YouTube videos. In 2020 we will be developing our YouTube channel to give people an insight into our workmanship. We are happy for these videos to be an educational tool used by other installers, as there are very few videos on the net showing solar installations in Australia. What are the stand out features or the benefits of working with Coffs Solar? If you purchase a solar PV system from Coffs Solar Energy, you are getting an A+ installation

with matching customer product warranty either, Our advice to consumers service. As we only as these national solar is to buy local from trade on the Coffs retailers import the solar companies that Coast, we can provide equipment directly. Our have been trading a much higher level of advice to consumers longer than their overall customer service is to buy local from stated workmanship than can be provided by companies that have warranty and never buy our competitors, who been trading longer than from a company that directly might trade state-wide their stated workmanship imports the solar equipment. or even nationally. warranty and never buy Our sales guys are from a company that very experienced and directly imports the solar understand the science equipment. If you want to of photovoltaics as much as our qualified make sure that you have a quality installation, electricians. We never pressure prospective don’t use a company that uses contractors, as clients into making a decision. We simply there is no ownership or accountability. Most provide accurate information and the best contractors are paid a fixed price, so it’s a case equipment for the job at hand. Our pricing is of get in and get out as quickly as possible. competitive, but our service is unbeatable. What do you enjoy most about living on What are some of the challenges facing the Coffs Coast? your industry? I love the Coffs Coast so much. I love having The biggest challenge facing the industry a surf at Sawtell Beach and looking back is that there is very little that can be done at the Life Saving Club House and seeing by ASIX to stop solar companies deliberately our donated solar system on their roof. I liquidating and then starting up again as love seeing our workmanship on multiple a phoenix operation. Having been in the installations when I drive around town. I love industry for 10 years now, we have seen this the fact that we get on so well with so many play out over and over again. Big national solar of the great builders in our city. companies selling systems at ridiculously cheap I love the green and the blue of our prices with over the top warranty claims - like coastline - a lot of people may not pick up 10 and 12 year installation warranties, only to that our green mountains and blue sea is our wipe their warranty liability two - three years reasoning behind our logo. We live in a great later when they deliberately fold. The problem place! for the consumer is that they don’t have any Thanks Mark.

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Coffs Harbour’s Pacific Bay Resort has been working with a company called Journey Beyond, who provide luxury boutique rail journeys to create the perfect stop off in Coffs Harbour for guests travelling on the first season of the “Great Southern” rail tour. We spoke with Christopher Winn about what this means for our region.

ey Chris. Tell us about Journey Beyond? Journey Beyond is one of Australia’s most revered experiential tourism companies offering a range of experiences in amazing locations operating businesses in across the country, including iconic Australian rail journeys The Ghan and Indian Pacific. Journey Beyond basically look to cultivate unique experiences in amazing locations, operating tours and hotels in Perth, Queensland, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Darwin, The Alice, and Rottnest Island. How did you and your team at Pacific Bay Resort get involved with Journey Beyond? We have been working with the team from Journey Beyond since mid-2018, when they first began scouting for locations around The Coffs Coast. Their destination and product development team have been a joy to work with since the very beginning. It’s been really encouraging to work with a team of people who are keen to push the boundaries around what’s possible here on The Coffs Coast. We spent multiple weekends introducing them to our properties and showing them around our region so that we could ensure they had everything they needed to build a great itinerary for their guests. What kind of experiences are guests offered on their stop here on the Coffs Coast? Guests travelling on the Brisbane to Adelaide leg arrive at Coffs Harbour each Monday evening and are treated to a gala dinner set beachside at Charlesworth Bay Beach. Guests travelling on the Adelaide to Brisbane leg arrive in Coffs Harbour each Sunday, where they are given the opportunity to wander along the foreshores and take in the Harbourside Markets or take a swim. They can also choose from tours to Sealy lookout or to the Urunga boardwalk, where they are treated to a guided walk with 18 Coffs Coast focus

Uncle Mark Flanders. Guests can even choose to play a round at Bonville Golf Resort. Why do you think the Coffs Coast is the perfect location for such an experiential travel experience? Coffs Harbour has always been a fantastic location for travellers. A major trend toward nature based tourism plays perfectly into the hands of our region’s assets. The proximity to world class rainforest and hinterland areas combined with our magnificent coastline makes it an easy choice for Journey Beyond. It’s important to recognise that in this space, guests are looking for more than just the location. They are actually looking to make a personal connection with the people, and that’s what can set Coffs Harbour apart as a destination. The people of Coffs Harbour have a great sense of place and a sense of self. Our personable and approachable team of staff, together with the relaxed vibe of our locals is assuring that our guest experience stands out from other destinations. One of the main highlights of the trip is the gala dinner here in Coffs. Please tell us about the event and how it showcases our region? Pacific Bay Resort is welcoming over 200 guests travelling south to Adelaide each Monday evening, to a luxury beachside dining event held on the shores of Charlesworth Bay Beach. We’ve created an evening that has a remarkably high end and personal feel. Our menus feature an abundance of local seafood, beef and wines, right down to desserts featuring fresh local bananas and local blueberries; the entire experience is a showcase of our exciting region. Guests are treated to canapés and beverages on the sand with live entertainment from the Sunset Trio, before a sit down dinner, styled with white notes, neutral tones and raw texture holding true to the oceanic surrounds. It’s a really special and decadent experience.

Who are some of the local businesses you Southern, but the hope is that it will chose to supply the gala dinner, and why continue into the future? was it so important for you to choose local I believe that Journey Beyond intends on produce? making the Great Southern one of their flagship We engaged The Romance; Heidi helped rail journeys, and pre-sales for 2020/ 21 journeys design and style the event with select pieces have already begun. from Rosie Pose Event Hire and Special As for this season, the sentiment toward Occasions Wedding & Events. the experience has been nothing but positive. I We have sourced the freshest of local can say that it’s great to work with a company produce, including who is so innovative Nambucca Oysters, Coffs and open to new Coast prawns, snapper possibilities, so the caught off Woolgoolga, experiences and events local cheeses, local black we plan for future WE’RE BLESSED TO BE angus, Dorrigo potatoes, journeys may be ABLE TO SHOWCASE local blueberries, bananas, completely different. OUR REGION TO SO and even figs from Our General Manager MANY NEW VISITORS Sapphire Beach. Brad Daymond would – THE TRAIN DEPARTS The experience is all like to extend his THE STATION EACH about connecting with thanks to Coffs Harbour WEEK WITH CARRIAGES the location. A lot of that City Council, NSW FULL OF SMILING FACES! comes down to discovering National Parks and the the tastes of our region. Regional Parks Trust We’re very lucky to have Board and well as Coffs such an abundance of Clarence Police for their award winning seafood and beautifully farmed phenomenal support of these events which are a local produce to draw from and share with our major boost to Coffs Harbour’s visitor economy. guests. It’s been a very important aspect of the The incredible foresight by the Major Events event. and Destination teams is quickly gaining Coffs What have been some of the responses Harbour a reputation as a ‘can do’ city’. from people who have experienced their Thanks Chris. stop here on the Coffs Coast? Journey Beyond’s Chief Operating Officer The response we’ve had from guests has been Luke Walker said, “We’ve worked closely great. They have been particularly commenting with the team at Pacific Bay Resort to on the beauty of the coastline and the quality create an incredible experience that Great of the food, especially the fresh seafood. Many Southern guests will treasure. The team of our guests have remarked at how they had has curated a unique beachside dining never been to the Coffs Coast before and of experience that highlights the beauty of their intentions to return in the future. We’re Coffs Harbour as well as the local produce, blessed to be able to showcase our region to so suppliers and entertainers. Pacific Bay Resort many new visitors - the train departs the station has gone above and beyond to deliver a each week with carriages full of smiling faces! professional and authentic experience with This is the maiden journey for the Great our guests at the heart of it all.”

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focusinterview with Sophie Bird of Tallow and Tide

Alyson Pearson A LY K AT

C R E AT I V E

ALYSON PEARSON IS A WOMAN OF MANY TALENTS, so I’m sitting down with Aly this month to hear about what’s been keeping her busy!

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ey lovely! So nice to have your gorgeous face in the mag this month. Before we get into what’s on your plate this year, let’s chat about what you do! Artist, graphic designer, teacher ... Tell me about it! Yes, I have my hands in many pies! I’ve been a graphic designer for nearly fifteen years and creating my own artwork under the alias Alykat Creative for a good portion of that too. I started teaching graphic design in London and Melbourne over the past few years, and it’s nice to now be able to bring those skills and enthusiasm to my home town and the midnorth-coast region working with TAFE NSW! So, that’s epic! What inspires you? It is pretty epic, isn’t it! I find the last few years have gone at such a fast and busy pace, when I do actually stop, take a deep breath, get some perspective from the top of Mutton Bird Island and clear my head, the excitement of remembering I’m in control of this crazy life and I’ve got this inspires me to keep going and push aside doubts that otherwise creep in. The environment and animals feature heavily in your work; this part of the world would feel like a never ending source of inspiration! What are some of your favourite spots to venture to on the Coffs Coast? I think I’m just a big animal lover and started off by experimenting with animals that I saw other illustrators draw, like deers and wolves, but I never had any real connection to them. It was while living in London that I genuinely started missing and appreciating Australia and was drawn to Australian flora and fauna that I might have previously taken for granted. As for favourite spots around Coffs, one of my most popular prints features a carousel at the end of the Jetty, and another which I literally titled “My Happy Place”, is based on one of my favourite spots along the Coffs Creek walk, which I now am lucky enough to regularly walk again with

my dog - as I did growing up years ago. What is keeping you busy this year? I’ve only just discovered that you curate exhibitions for a local art gallery, and that’s AMAZING! Oh my god, so many things! But yes, apart from teaching at TAFE, creating freelance and personal artwork (and training my dog to sit patiently with me at cafés), the little independent laneway gallery in the centre of town is stealing my heart! Planet Art Gallery is a not-for-profit, volunteerrun space, owned and generously funded by local surgeon, Professor Ned Abraham. I started just helping out a day a week; now fast-forward a year later ,and I think I’ve found my calling! Discovering, meeting and supporting regional artists of all backgrounds and disciplines, being able to offer a platform to exhibit at no cost and celebrate with a professional and inspiring Opening Night is a satisfying and exciting experience - so much so, that I’ve committed to exhibiting a new artist/s every two weeks this year! What else can we expect from you in 2020? And where can people view, love and buy your amazing art? You can still catch my first curated group exhibition until the end of January at Planet Art Gallery, which features a stellar line up of over twenty local and diverse artists, all celebrating Australia in 2020. I’ve got some really exciting collaborations coming out with raw chocolate brand, Deva Chocolate, some inspiring teaching work with local Indigenous communities, and I’m so excited for all of the artists I’m yet to meet through the year at the gallery. Hopefully amongst all of that I’ll make time to create more Alykat artwork too! Keep up to speed with who’s showing at the gallery each fortnight - FB + INSTA = @PlanetArtGalleryCoffs And for all things Alykat, follow both Insta + FB over at @alykatcreative

NEW...

Advanced Mechanical Services We all know it’s important to drive a vehicle that’s safe - especially around the holidays. Have you been neglecting your car? Have you had no time to book that service? Or, have you got it on your “to-do” list for the holiday period? Whatever your excuse, don’t put it off any longer! Advanced Mechanical Services have a great offer for you! For the month of February 2020, we will be offering a free rego check with every lube service. You heard that right! A FREE rego check with every lube service. Even if your rego isn’t due for another two, three or four months, we’ll give you a voucher. A lubrication service will cover an oil and filter change, checking both the pressure and condition of your tyres, checking under the bonnet to ensure optimal levels of cooling system fluids, brake fluids and clutch, as well as hoses, lights and more! Ensure your car is safe on the roads and start the year right. Book in your lubrication service now and get that free rego check! Conveniently located at 6/163 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour. Call 0431 231 920 and book your service today.

This is the store you’re looking for.

Park Beach Plaza @edegrees | 66511575 Park Beach Plaza 2019 Retailer of the Year! Coffs Coast focus 21

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FOCUS sat down with an excited John Logan to talk about the second instalment of his newest event, the Summer Beach Hop, which will happen on Saturday, February 1st.

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o John, just what is the Summer Beach Hop? The Summer Beach Hop is a retro music and classic car event we are holding for the second year on Saturday, February 1st at the Jetty Foreshores. It features two bands - Sixties Invasion from Sydney plus The Drive-Ins from Coffs - a fabulous collection of great classic cars, licensed bar, food stalls and a great night of retro music from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. It runs from 5pm - 9:30pm. OK, so where did the idea come from? We’ve always thought Coffs could play host to a retro music event, and a lot of long term residents of Coffs may remember the Wintersun Festival that came here for two years, then like so many other events disappeared. I was sure we could take that idea, resurrect it, and do it better. I set about visiting other similar classic car and retro music events, and this made me more determined than ever to do it. I saw cars set up in square grids in dusty paddocks, poorly presented. I saw cars driving around dodging pedestrians at another, and just about every event treated the bands as a sideline. I figured we had several advantages over all of them and we have a brilliant and virtually brand new location - a grassed reserve less than 100 metres from the beach, the jetty foreshores and with its circular paths,it offers a spectacular way to present the vehicles. Was it hard to get the event off the ground? Yes it was, definitely. We always knew we had a great idea but like a lot of good ideas, it takes lots and lots of hard work, and you can’t let little set-backs put you off. While last year was a real slog, this year it’s been slightly easier but to give you an idea, we wrote to 120 car clubs last year and got a response from one. Thank goodness Stoo Copeland from Advanced Car Club came on board. He has been brilliant.

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This year, we were also forced at short notice to as local band The Drive-Ins, who play a swag of ‘50s like change the date. This was a massive headache, because Elvis, Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochrane, Chuck Berry and Bill we couldn’t find a date in February when there wasn’t Haley. There will be VIP tickets for those willing to pay another major event in town. So, we decided to go on a little bit more for an undercover area, their own table February 1st and everyone has accepted that, virtually and seat. the same weekend as last year. Anyone who has run an This year organisers have promised to have plenty event will pretty much tell you the of food available, with double same story: that events are a series the amount of food vendors. A of small problems and dramas you licensed bar will be on site, several work on every day in the lead up. food options, with the Rock n Roll Why did you call it “Summer diner on site, as well as gluten free I was sure we could take that Beach Hop”? and diabetic option food outlets. idea, resurrect it, and do it Well, we wanted a name that The Lions Club of Coffs Harbour better. I set about visiting was synonymous with music of that will also run a sausage sizzle and other similar classic era, and beach parties in the ‘50s soft drink stall. You can also bring car and retro music and ‘60s were called a hop, so I your own folding chair. events, and this made took that name and added summer What are the times of the me more determined and beach. Last year no one knew event ? than ever to do it. what it was, and even my I.T. guy 5pm - 9:30pm, with gate tickets said, “No one knows what a hop available from 4:30pm. is”. However, we persevered, and Can we book online? now it has its own identity. Most We strongly recommend people know it as the retro music event with old cars people pre buy their tickets online @ www.trybooking. down on the beach, and that is exactly what it is. com/583993 So what’s in store at this year’s event? If you don’t mind lining up on the day, you can also Firstly we have some spectacular old cars, mostly pre get them at the gate as above from 4:30pm. 1979, with many pre 1950. For the past few months or Can I buy hard copy tickets beforehand? so, people have been contacting me from all over the Yes, some folk prefer their own ticket beforehand; just North Coast offering me vehicles. Last year we were give the gang at JLE a call on 6652 8266 BH. lucky enough to have some 60 cars. This year we expect Where can I find out more information? more. Check out the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ We have two great bands: Sixties Invasion from summerbeachhop or call 6652 8266 BH. Sydney, who do some of the best hits of the ‘60s, Any suggestions to make my experience better? including Lulu, The Rolling Stones, Beatles, The Yes, bring a rug and something warm should the night Easybeats, The Monkees, Manfred Man, Dusty turn chilly. Springfield, Nancy Sinatra, The Kinks and more; as well Thanks John.

ON THE COVER

The Chocolate Bomb - Velvets Restaurant, Two Tails Wines

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Hux’s Seafood

SATURDAY FEB 15th 2020 8 RACE TAB MEETING GATES 11:30am - $10 ENTRY

62 HOWARD ST, COFFS HARBOUR (02) 6652 1488 COFFSRACINGCLUB.COM.AU

coffsracingclub.com.au 62 Howard St, Coffs Harbour PO Box 482 Coffs Harbour 2450 (02) 6652 1488

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Wendy from Hux’s Seafood is the go to for all things seafood and how to make the best of what’s in season. The shop have fresh green prawns available, so she thought this recipe would go down a treat! If you would like to know more or to see what else is available, make sure you go down and have a chat to the team. INGREDIENTS 24 peeled green prawns, cleaned, tails intact. Finely grated rind of ½ lemon 8 thin slices of prosciutto Olive oil, for drizzling Wild rocket, lemon wedges and aioli to serve.

Preheat a barbecue to medium-high. Season prawns to taste and scatter with a little lemon rind, then wrap each prawn in a piece of prosciutto (you’ll need about a third of a slice, depending on the size of your prosciutto). Thread one prawn on to each skewer, drizzle with a little oil then grill, turning occasionally, until cooked through (2 - 3 minutes). Serve hot, scattered with rocket, with lemon wedges and aioli. Serves four as a snack.

The

brasserie

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1ST FEBRUARY Breno & the Re-Mains - The Coast Hotel Chris Grieve - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Ryan Brooker - Element Bar Who wants to be a Rockstar Feat; Misschief - Seaview Tavern DJ Dangerwaves - Hoey Moey A Celebration of the Superstars of Country Then & Now - Sawtell RSL Festival of Small Halls Summer Tour 2020: Coramba Community Hall

2ND FEBRUARY

Korfside Jazz Band - Harbourside Markets Snez - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Jason Lowe - Element Bar Pink Zinc - Hoey Moey

3RD FEBRUARY

Super Bowl LIV - The Toormina Hotel

5TH FEBRUARY

Cocktails Craft and Acoustics w/ Chris Grieve The Coast Hotel Josh Matheson - Element Bar

6TH FEBRUARY

Thursday night Vibes w/ Owen Shanon - The Coast Hotel Peter L Barry - Element Bar

7TH FEBRUARY

TGIF w/ Bisho - Coast Hotel Vena Klymo - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Kailey Pallas - Element Bar Push Band - Seaview Tavern Katie Brooke + DJ Richard Gear - The Hoey Moey

8TH FEBRUARY

Chockablock & Soundbite trio - The Coast Hotel Peter L Barry - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Chris Grieve - Element Bar Katie Brooke - Seaview Tavern Damien Leith - Jetty Theatre

9TH FEBRUARY

1st Avenue - Harbourside Markets Rachel Laing 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Rachel Laing 4:30pm - Element Bar McKENZIE Band - Hoey Moey

12TH FEBRUARY

Cocktails Craft and Acoustics w/ Kailey Pallas - The Coast Hotel Josh Matheson - Element Bar

13TH FEBRUARY

Thursday night Vibes w/ Josh Matherson - The Coast Hotel Akova - Element Bar Gordon Hendricks is ‘The Spirit of Elvis’ - The Jetty Theatre

14TH FEBRUARY

TGIF w/ Skoney - The Coast Hotel Akova - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Chris Grieve - Element Bar Elton, Out of the Close feat. Jason Paris - The Greenhouse Tavern Gunshy - Seaview Tavern Jess Swilks + DJ Dangerwaves - Hoey Moey Tim Maddren: Me & My Shadow - Jetty Theatre

15TH FEBRUARY

DJ Blakey & Lockout - The Coast Hotel 26 Coffs Coast focus

Kailey Pallas - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Benny Black - Element Bar RnB Night with DJ Helmy - Seaview Tavern McKENZIE BAND from 5:30pm + DJ Richard Gear - Hoey Moey Tim Maddren: Me & My Shadow - The Jetty Theatre

16TH FEBRUARY

Seniors Week Festival 2020 - Harbourside Markets Josh Matheson - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Peter L Barry - Element Bar The Daisy Dukes - Hoey Moey

19TH FEBRUARY

Cocktails Craft and Acoustics w/ Max de Groot - The Coast Hotel Josh Matheson - Element Bar

20TH FEBRUARY

Thursday night Vibes w/ Benny Black - The Coast Hotel Peter L Barry - Element Bar

21ST FEBRUARY

TGIF w/ Rjay - The Coast Hotel Vena Klymo - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Oly Sherman - Element Bar Pink Zinc - Seaview Tavern Madelyn Duo + DJ Dangerwaves - Hoey Moey

22ND FEBRUARY

J-Stainz & Dirty Covers - The Coast Hotel Oly Sherman - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Chris Grieve - Element Bar Leeroy & the Rats - Seaview Tavern DJ Richard Gear - Hoey Moey

23RD FEBRUARY

Esmeralda - Harbourside Markets Josh Matheson 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Josh Matheson 4:30pm - Element Bar Follow the Yellow Brick Road - The Elton John Tribute Show - Hoey Moey

25TH FEBRUARY

Elton John - C.ex Coffs International Stadium

26TH FEBRUARY

Cocktails Craft and Acoustics w/ Ryan Parsons - The Coast Hotel Paul White - Element Bar Elton John - C.ex Coffs International Stadium

27TH FEBRUARY

Thursday night Vibes w/ Jacob Murray - The Coast Hotel Vena Klymo - Element Bar

28TH FEBRUARY

TGIF w/ Bisho - The Coast Hotel Tim Stokes - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Kailey Pallas - Element Bar Hekyl & Jive - Seaview Tavern Mitch Burgess + DJ Richard Gear - Hoey Moey

29TH FEBRUARY

Jimmy Laing & One Night Stand - The Coast Hotel Peter L Barry - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Tim Stokes - Element Bar Mal Eastick Duo - Seaview Tavern DJ Richard Gear - Hoey Moey

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focuscontributor with Rebecca Platts

British India SAWTELL RSL - FRIDAY 27TH DECEMBER

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hat an absolute banger of a show! We were so thrilled to go along to the British India show at the Sawtell RSL. They are currently in the middle of their summer tour, which is travelling up and down the east coast. After a 12 month break, they are back with a brand new guitarist. They are definitely ready to remind us why they have four Top 10 ARIA albums, eight entries into the Hottest 100 and an accredited Gold Single under their belt.

Declan the lead vocalist and also guitarist was familiar with the crowd and even provided the anecdote that he always remembers the venue as the “boaty one”. Singing his personal favourite song of theirs, Plastic Souvenirs, Declan drew in the crowd for the entire set. Being so close to NYE, the band even offered for any concert goers to hang around for a drink after the show! Without a doubt one of the best performances we’ve seen come through the Sawtell RSL.

Steph & Nicola

Chelsea & Reece

Dan, Phoebe & Amy

Jimeoin, Ramble On!

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SAWTELL RSL - THURSDAY 9TH JANUARY

rish born Jimeoin, the comedian, did not disappoint at all recently performing at Sawtell RSL with his new stand up show Ramble On. It was an absolute full house in the Princess Room, and laughter belted out from start to finish. Jimeoin happily imparted his clever and quirky observations on everyday suburban life in his usual trademark style. He started with Catholic jokes and ended with his own guitar lyrics, which had everyone belly laughing.With songs such as Balls Deep, and Quick Love, the scene was set.

Alison & James

He moves onto those middle-age Debbie & Steve

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Trudy, Sera & Matt

comedy staples, marriage, and ageing. No subject was spared. Even though Jimeoin has been living in Australia since he was 22, his accent is still thick and really adds to the performance. His facial expressions and take on everyday events makes his jokes so relatable. His ability to flit from one subject to another, all whilst interacting with the audience, took us on some kind of ridiculously funny journey. Touring worldwide, it is easy to see why Jimeoin is a veteran of his craft. If you get the chance, definitely catch one of his shows.

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H

TIM Maddren ME & MY SHADOW

TIX ONLINE!

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i Tim. Most of FOCUS’ readers would know you from your time with Hi-5. What are some of your favourite experiences from this part of your life? Hi-5 was an incredible job. I am currently the director for Hi-5 International’s live stage-shows, so I’m fortunate to still be involved. As World Vision and Starlight Foundation Ambassadors we, as a group, shared experiences that were truly incredible. I found myself teaching magic tricks to children living in the garbage-slums of Cebu, mixing with royalty and learning about the joy of life from a 10 year old with an incurable disease - it is impossible to properly share how special being a member of that group was at that time. I find myself implementing what I learnt on the show every day to my own children and students. You and Steph formed a theatre production company in Port Macquarie, called Got Ya Back Productions. What does this company do? Our big aim is to encourage the arts - especially live performance - throughout the Mid North Coast region. Since our establishment in 2017 we have produced 12 different theatre productions on the Mid North Coast. In early 2019 we toured the top half of NSW with our original production BANJO; this had an entire cast from the Mid North Coast and it received exceptional responses throughout the state. I’m proud to say “local” productions, like BANJO and ME & MY SHADOW, that have been conceived and built within the region are now competing on a national touring level. We also produce youth productions in Taree and Port Macquarie for children interested in trying out a theatre. We don’t hold auditions; we simply take the

first who register their interest and build the production with that group. The shows are not an exercise in making brilliant productions. Shows are built, first and foremost, upon our company philosophy of always having someone else’s back - looking after others. You have an upcoming show, ME and MY SHADOW, at the Jetty Theatre on February 14th and 15th. What can we expect? It’s a crooning night. This means we’re transforming the Jetty into a jazz saloon for the season. With the Jetty team we’re setting up cabaret seating, opening doors one hour early so you can come in, with wine in hand, and enjoy the venue in a new way. With performances landing around Valentine’s Day, we want to make it the perfect date night. Our aim is for the show to be a completely different way to experience the Jetty. The great crooners, before their acts turned into glitzy Las Vegas extravaganzas, all performed first in these intimate, smokey saloons. The saloon venue appears to be forgotten by the modern crooner. I believe a saloon is still the best place for this form of singing to be witnessed. It’s a raw space that gives the performer almost nothing else to rely upon other than their skill. It’s just a pianist and a crooner working together. Saloon singing is one of the hardest forms of live performance to execute. Because of these challenges, not many attempt to produce this type of show today. Many of the great croon-tunes will be performed - Mack the Knife, New York New York, Mr Bojangles - you’ll know a lot of the repertoire. Where can we find out more about Got Ya Back? www.gotyaback.productions - we’re on Instagram and Facebook too @gotyabackproductions

focus_tourism

WITH FIONA BARDEN

WITH TEGAN SWAN OF WOOLGOOLGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

events+ UPDATE

Onwards for 2020 Our region, along with much of Australia, has experienced situations and hardships leading into and during this holiday period, that have seen devastation and loss. We, along with many others, share our gratitude for the many service professionals and volunteers who have worked to fight devastating fires throughout Australia.

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any are asking what explore a different headland or do it from a do we do now. What different perspective, picnic in a different spot. can we do to assist our Taste the Coffs Coast - go out for dinner, destination to recover and try a local dish, spoil yourself and order an move forward? Here are extra dessert, drink a local beer or wine. They some of our ideas to help say food is the new souvenir, so indulge your locally and help you have a little fun at the taste buds and take the time to purchase a same time! local souvenir. Live like a local - we want our visitors to Savour an award-winning experience know how great it is here on the Coffs Coast. - many of our attractions, services and spaces What better way than showing visitors what are award winning, the best that you can have. we get to enjoy every day? What part of the Maybe it’s time to see what all the fuss is Coffs Coast do you love to enjoy as your own? about. Try joining in on an Indigenous cultural Is it a favourite coffee shop, show, photographing a beautiful swimming the city from a perfectly place, or a quiet walking located lookout, booking track? What do you get to your family into a friendYou know there’s more to do every day as a local, that ly holiday park or resort each Coffs Coast experience you think a visitor might accommodation, taking than first meets the eye, wish they knew about? a tour with some local so try something new, Share the experience with experts from hinterland something more. Walk a bit your friends, your visitors to coast, playing golf at longer, drive a bit further, and your colleagues. an awe-inspiring venue ask what more you can Experience an event or pampering yourself as experience at an attraction, with some amazing events you eat and drink your explore a different over the holiday period way around the Coffs headland or do it from a such as BBL Cricket and Coast. Just remember it’s different perspective, picnic SWIFF, we’ve got a few top class here for you, in a different spot. more treats already lined up whatever way you want for this year on the Coffs to enjoy it. Coast, starting with Sir #ShareCoffsCoast Elton John and his Farewell - take some time, take Yellow Brick Road tour in late February. Coma friend, take a photo and share your Coffs munity events, spectator events and participant Coast experiences. Let everyone know what events give an awesome way for many to enjoy they’re missing out on, as you take advantage this world class event city. of the place we get to call home. Add a little more - you know there’s more Check out all there is to do on the Coffs to each Coffs Coast experience than first meets Coast at www.coffscoast.com and be part the eye, so try something new, something of growing the Coffs Coast acclamation as more. Walk a bit longer, drive a bit further, ask one of Australia’s friendliest cities. what more you can experience at an attraction, #coffscoast #naturallyconnected

A focus on gratitude in your (local) adventures … It’s February and our last month of summer; in many senses, so many of our community will be incredibly grateful to see the end of this season. My heart breaks for those locally and across the country who have been affected by the bush fires. I know there are many efforts from individuals, community groups and organisations and all levels of government to get people back on their feet. If you need help or know someone who does, please reach out.

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hen considering this for our environment and the changes we’re column for the month, experiencing and what the future holds. it didn’t feel right to Visit the local waterfalls and walking tracks be flippant with how (only when it’s safe to do so) and enjoy the wonderful our local area is wonderful solitude, promise the trees and the and all the ways we can enjoy living or visiting earth that you personally vow to do your best here when so many people across the country by them from now on in. are hurting. I felt the need to recognise the Grab some friends and go for a drive, not trauma areas of our LGA have experienced just down the coast from Corindi to Bundagen, recently, but rather than focusing on the but inland to Nana Glen, Coramba and Ulong. destruction and the amount of work still to Don’t take anything with you; stop in at shops be done, I wanted to along the way. Buy your offer the opportunity to snacks and your lunch and express gratitude as you what you’ll take home for move throughout our dinner. Buy presents for beautiful Coffs Coast ... future celebrations and The consequences of Gratitude for what we stock up on what you the bush fires, as well have and what will be need from shops you’ve as the ongoing drought, created as we continue never been to. Challenge create an impact on to support our local yourself to go to places the wider community communities and local you’ve never visited and that is sometimes businesses. try things you’ve never underestimated, as it’s not Coffs Harbour … done, all in your own always visible or obvious. all of Australia really, magnificent local back but especially our local yard. Enjoy the feeling of community - we’re gratitude that you can a big family, and we help each other out. have a wonderful adventure while helping to The consequences of the bush fires, as well support local business and local families. as the ongoing drought, create an impact Oh! And don’t forget to share! Tell your on the wider community that is sometimes friends and family what you found, share it underestimated, as it’s not always visible or with your work colleagues, tell everyone on obvious. social media (you know I love social media for So here’s what I’d LOVE to see us all doing, sharing all the things), spread the love far and while still honouring and respecting the wide about how wonderful our Coffs Coast is hardship people are facing - get out there! Go and how grateful and lucky we are to live in to the beach, sit in the sun and splash in the the best place in the whole world. waves and feel so damn grateful that you have Thank you to all of those legendary people the opportunity to do so. Be in the moment who keep us safe every day, in many different and acknowledge that we have a responsibility ways, we are so very grateful for you. Coffs Coast focus 31

COFFEE SHAKE Is it a coffee, is it a shake? No, it’s both! Introducing the newest member to our iconic Macca’s shake range - Real Coffee Shake. Made using a cold brew coffee concentrate, our customers will now be able to indulge in the sweetness and familiarity of the shake they know and love combined with the bitterness and edge of real coffee.

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hat is cold brew coffee? Cold brew coffee is coarsely ground coffee that is then brewed in cold water for approximately 24 hours. After the desired time is reached, the coffee grounds are filtered and the coffee concentrate is extracted. Cold brewed coffee seems sweeter and a lot smoother than traditional espresso, due to its long brew time resulting in low acidity and will offer more fruity and floral flavours in the cup. Once the concentrate is made, the coffee concentrate will then be diluted with water and can be served over ice. What coffee bean are we using? The coffee we will be using in our cold brew and nitro beverages is a single origin bean. It is from Kenya - yes, it’s the same Kenyan coffee that is used in our new McCafé Blend, so it is 100% RFA and 100% delicious. It’s roasted a little lighter to allow for the fruity notes to come through even more. Our Kenyan coffee is bright with a vibrant and juicy orange acidity and is delicious served over ice as a cold brew and even sweeter through the nitro process.

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New Veggie Burger Range and Deluxe Shake Range For a limited time only, we are launching some new exciting items: McVeggie Burger: Featuring a delicious, crunchy potato, cheese and veggie patty, fresh lettuce, creamy Macca’s mayo and our famous pickles - now there truly is something for everyone at Macca’s. McVeggie Deluxe Burger: The delicious base build plus one slice of tomato and Jack Cheese, for a satisfying and fresh feed. Deluxe Shakes: Our current shake range, surrounded by delicious topping, served with two servings of shaved chocolate and whipped cream. Our new deluxe shake range is the perfect way to beat this summer’s heat. Available in all flavours/sizes in the current shake range. Frozen Coke No Sugar: We are excited to be launching Frozen Coke No Sugar exclusively at McDonald’s this summer and expanding the frozen offering for our customers. Frozen Coke No Sugar tastes just like Frozen Coke, but without the sugar!

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY Guy Gilmour, Wind in the whisky grass 2013, oil on polyester

12 - 23 FEBRUARY 2020 ART - MUSIC - DANCE - THEATRE LITERATURE - WORKSHOPS

AN ARTIST'S GARDEN 14 FEBRUARY– 18 APRIL

TERRI BUTTERWORTH & GUY GILMOUR

An Artist’s Garden presents the work of Terri Butterworth and Guy Gilmour, two of the Coffs Coast most established and respected painters: one abstract, one figurative. Founded in a strong, personal sense of place, these artists view the Orara Valley’s bush and pastoral landscapes as their own artist’s garden through two distinct lenses.

CELEBRATE AGEING CREATIVELY

Terri Butterworth, Garden 2018, oil on canvas

We gathered the best cultural events for seniors from across the Mid North Coast. There’s something for everyone, so get out there, enjoy and get creative!

Photographs courtesy of Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance

Participating in arts and cultural activities has proven benefits in improving health and wellbeing in older people.

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY OPEN TUESDAY–SATURDAY 10AM–4PM FREE ADMISSION CNR COFF & DUKE STREETS \ COFFS HARBOUR 02 6648 4863 coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/gallery facebook.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery instagram.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is a cultural facility of Coffs Harbour City Council

artsmidnorthcoast.com/creative-ageing-festival

#creativecoast

#creativeageing

#artsmnc

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focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmetic Laser & Medispa Race Owners Barb Ellis & Lyn Clarke

Adelaide & Leanne Zietsch

Sawtell RSL ‘80s Night

Sawtell Hotel Race Owners

Karen Pinkstone, Glenn Pinkstone, Julie Armsttong & Tony Pinkstone

Best Dressed Family Second Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup

Madonna Bannerman’s birthday party

Raine & Horne Sawtell, Toormina Staff and Guests

Ann Smith, Shirley Woodhouse & Anne Townsend

social scene.

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It is seriously wonderful to see the rain. I can totally imagine the euphoric effect it had on anyone affected by this catastrophic situation! The saying “The simple things are often the best” is absolutely the truth!

e have so many local talented artists on the Coffs Coast, that there is constantly the opportunity to visit our galleries and show rooms to view their works. We had the pleasure of attending a solo art exhibition which showcased the artistry of one of our local talented artists, Jim Tozer. The Visions of our Country exhibition is being presented by the The Coffs Harbour Creative Arts Group incorporated at the Coffs Harbour Showground Art Gallery. Jim Tozer is a selftaught artist, and his passion for and love of country shows in his detail. For fifty years this artist has captured the wonders of the world around him. The art show will run until the 5th February, so do not miss out! The summer season saw a flurry of race days at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Two of the latest race days were the Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup and the ever popular fundraising Pink Silks Race Day. Pink Silks gives everyone the opportunity to dress up in all shades of pink and raises funds for the charity. They have certainly achieved raising an amount to be proud of! They have raised the amazing amount of over $1,000,000! WOW! Some of the much needed 34 Coffs Coast focus

equipment that will now be provided will be: CHHC Emergency Department $20K Bi-PAP machine; CHHC Operating Theatres - $40K new ENT surgical equipment; CHHC Maternity Department - $20K specialised examination bed and equipment trolley in ED, for complications of pregnancy and women who have been sexually assaulted; CHHC Gynecological Department $20K specialised examination bed and trolley for Cervical Biopsies - new service to start at the hospital; CASPA - 10K outfit an education room, to empower women through education and life strategies; CHC Cancer Council $3K for transport needs for cancer patients; local NSW RFS - $10K for needed firefighting equipment; Research Lung Foundation Australia - $10K for imitative clinical trials and research. These two are family friendly and fashion days, with both days seeing locals and tourists streaming into the Coffs Harbour Racing Club to enjoy a day at the races with family and friends. The Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup Race sponsors were Scott Bellamy and his team from Raine and Horne Sawtell/Toormina, La Fleur D’Alyse Cosmedic Laser and Medispa, Barry and Madonna Bannerman from Two Tails Wines, Ivan and Christopher Beros from Country to Coast

Pest Control, Sawtell Hotel, Le Dãin Designs, and Punting Baron. The Fashions on the Field judging panel consisted of Kerrie Fraser, Madonna Bannerman, Tracey Adams and Michael Simmon. The major Fashions on the Field sponsors for the day were Le Dãin Designs, Jack Simmons Menswear, and Girlfit. All these businesses help support these days and make them a huge success. The theme for the Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup was bright, colourful and floral, and the crowd certainly lived up to that! FOCUS attended the “Never Ending Walking on Sunshine Party”, which was staged at the Sawtell RSL. To say the club was jumping and packed to the max would be an understatement! A blast of ‘80s fluro streamed through the doors of the Sawtell RSL and proceeded to party on through the night. I have never seen the dance floor so packed. What a night! There are lots of large events and shows, but all around us there are smaller celebrations going on that are just as important. FOCUS loves to hear your stories and cover your celebrations whenever they can. So either call the office, or you can contact me on 0417 471 019 and we will see what we can do. For example, with a lot of hard work, Gary and Christine Gardiner

from Sawtell Paradise Fruit were celebrating being 18 years in Sawtell! Woohoo, congratulations! They shared the love with their customers with an enormous super delicious cake! Also, welcome drinks and lunch were had at one of those race days which I just mentioned, to celebrate Brett Weick formerly from Bellingen - joining Peter Stone and his team at Real Estate of Distinction down at Sawtell. I hear a fine time was had that day, with a flutter or two, along with a few refreshments! All these smaller celebrations are huge to the individual, team or business with whatever they are achieving. All events are worth celebrating … bring on an amazing 2020! If I could throw a party for all the small groups of people who helped out or are still raising funds to help fight the bush fire catastrophes, I would! All those small groups created one HUGE amount of relief for humans and animals alike and have made an enormous difference to them all. Here is to … Living the dream and counting your blessings. Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

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social scene.

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Michael & Sally Simmon

Madonna Bannerman’s birthday party

Vicky Hunter and Dan Schupp

Mark & Nicole Baker, Deb Lane Sawtell RSL 80’s Night

Andrew & Trudy Thompson, Lianne De Paolli

Best Dressed Family First Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup

Two Tails Wines Race Owners Table

Carole Beros, Jenny Evans, Vicky Hunter

Brett Weick & Peter Stone

Leonie Sens Birthday Dinner at Lattitude 30

Marie Kane & Carole Beros

Cathie Burnett, Troy Thomas, Trina Thomas, Scott Taplee, Beven White Sawtell RSL 80’s Night

Shanette Farrell, Emma Wood and Kim Jackson

Judging Panel Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup Madonna Bannerman, Michael Simmon, Tracey Adams & Kerrie Fraser

Karen & Erin Jackson

Kathryn & Craig Black

Andrew & Kerrie Fraser

Christine & Gary Gardiner

Jim & Melissa Tozer

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Coffs Coast

BACHELORS

Bachelorettes Coffs Coast focus 37

focusinterview.

Meet our Most Eligible

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Age: 31. Profession: Personal assistant. Tell us about yourself: I’m a 5 foot 2 pocket rocket with a very active lifestyle. I have two sassy daughters. I like my music loud, my wine glass full and to be surrounded by my incredible friends. If I am not exercising or checking out the social scenery that Coffs has to offer, I am looking after my property and being a super mum. I am the queen of banter, love an adrenaline rush and hate capsicum with a passion. What is your ideal first date? Somewhere that has great food and live music. If we hit off, then we see where the night takes us, because spontaneity is always fun. What qualities do you look for in a partner? Respect, whether it be property, animals or people, honesty and being upfront, a wicked sense of humour and must love dogs. Repeat - must love dogs.

CHELSEA CROW E

How can we get in touch with you? Instagram - @chelseacarys

Age: 24. Profession: Sales consultant. Tell me about yourself: I’m a Coffs Harbour/ Sawtell local, and I work in sales. In my free time if I’m not playing some kind of sport, I am creating art or mischief. I’m forever chasing a new place to swim and the best tree to climb. I love to travel and try incredible new food and ridiculous new drinks. l asked my close group of friends to describe me, and they claim I am energetic, eccentric and confident.

A IMEE-LY NDA L L

JOHNSON Age: 20. Profession: Nutritionist.

What qualities do you look for in a partner? Someone genuine, intellectual and enjoys sport just as much as I do. I want someone I can travel the world and discover new things with, but also goof around with and see a best friend in. Someone who has the same values towards the environment and shows kindness and compassion to all.

Tell us about yourself: I came to Australia two years ago and travelled through a lot of countries including Europe, Africa and Asia. I speak three languages fluently and live in beautiful Woopi. I spend a lot of time working out and surfing, and I love dogs more than anything. I talk too much and eat too many Tim Tams ... but yeah, I’m pretty cool I suppose. What is your ideal first date? For me one of the most important things is going somewhere relatively quiet and not too busy. I feel like going to crowded restaurants or the movies takes away a lot of the opportunity to actually talk and get to know each other, which is kind of the point. What qualities do you look for in a partner? Someone who’s kind and smart, who listens to my weird stories over and over again and is as much into sports and adventures as I am. How can we get in touch with you? Instagram: @aimeelyndall

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EMMA BROW N I NG

What’s your ideal first date? My ideal date would be outdoors or somewhere I can move around, be it the beach, hike or picnic. Somewhere you can have a genuine conversation, relax and be able to be yourself. I dread being stuck behind the confines of a table in an over priced restaurant struggling to even hear myself think, let alone hold a conversation. How can we get in touch with you? You can find me on Instagram @the_sword_of_justice

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Age: 21. Profession: Associate agent at McGrath / promotional manager of Rolling Sets / part owner of The Outfit Co. Age: 24.

Tell us about yourself: I grew up in Coffs Harbour and have lived here my whole life. I have a large passion to succeed. I would consider myself very ambitious and selfless. I’m confident in what I want and have a strong passion for my careers. I love spending time with my family. I have a younger brother and younger sister. I play Rugby League for Coffs Harbour Comets. I’m a sucker for a Tic Toc and enjoy spending time with friends, family and surrounding myself in a social setting.

Profession: Manager at the Hoey Moey here in Coffs Harbour. Tell us about yourself: I’m originally from Wicklow in Ireland, which is half hour south of Dublin city. I’ve been here just over two years now. Big into sports and love being active. Always up for a laugh and a beer.

JARRARD LEMMING

What is your ideal first date? My ideal first date would be simple but sweet. Cocktails and a picnic by the beach with some live music is always nice. What qualities do you look for in a partner? Someone who is ambitious, passionate and wants to make the most out of every moment. They must have a big heart - someone who is caring, self-less and empathetic.

What’s your ideal first date: Just having a chilled out time - nothing too flashy or over the top. Don’t really have an ideal first date; as long as the conversation can flow without any awkward silences, I’d be happy ha ha. How can we get in touch with you? You can find me on Instagram @k_cullinan

How can we get in touch with you? You can find me on Instagram at @JarrardLemming

Age: 39. Profession: Concrete distribution and placement technician.

PAUL VAN DEN BOOM

Tell us about yourself: Born in GC and raised in Coffs, I am one of seven children and have two boys of my own. I have moved away and travelled a bit but always find myself back here; Coffs is my grounding place. I grew up camping, fishing and exploring around Coffs, and even now I continually discover new amazing places in my travels around the area. I basically say yes to as much as I possibly can, hence why I am here. I am a writer, amateur photographer, mental health advocate, competitive bodyboarder, fisherman and all round outdoorsman. I am also a bit of a volunteer addict and work with local groups like Dads in Distress, Friends of South Solitary Island Lighthouse and Coffs Coast Bodyboarding Association. I love local events and helped create the Dave Irvine Memorial Snapper Classic and recently helped out at Botanica and the Rolling Sets Festival. My goal is to return to PNG to do the Kokoda Track and my dream would be to start my own self help podcast.

KEVIN CULLINAN

What is your ideal first date? It pretty much has to involve coffee ha ha, but generally I like a nice casual chat and a walk up the headland or beach. What qualities do you look for in a partner? My mantra is Be Mindful, Be Honest, Be Kind and Be Yourself. If you can uphold those four values, then you’re off to a good start. How can we get in touch with you? Instagram @paul_van_den_boom

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WITH KERRY MOSS FROM QUADRANT TRAVEL

in retirement

Quadrant Travel

You’ve worked hard your entire life; you deserve to enjoy your retirement. With the right planning and budget, you can still enjoy the joys of travel. We asked our travel writer, Kerry Moss, to tell us some of her best tips for travelling in retirement.

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hoose your timing make the suggestion to your club that you start One of the joys of not having travelling together. to be back at work or fit within You don’t have to go far, to go far the school holidays is that you Travel for a different view, a different can travel outside of peak times. perspective, to learn from others and appreciate Airfares, hotels, touring and life. It doesn’t matter how far you go, as long even tourist attractions all offer different rates as you go. If you’re on a tighter budget or your at different times of the year. If you plan it and health is preventing you from going too far can travel outside of the peak periods, then the from home, then travel in your own backyard. savings can be huge - and the crowds are often There are plenty of options available within a less. It’s a win-win. day or two that will refresh you, recharge you Talk to the experts and remind you that things don’t have to break Even if you have the time to plan it yourself, the bank. a visit to your travel agent Protect yourself is a smart investment. Travel insurance is a Travel agents are trained necessary cost of travel. professionals who live Whilst it does add cost and breathe travel. They to your trip, it protects It’s linked to boosting can offer advice about you from unknown physical, cognitive and your destination and also situations and unexpected social health in seniors. It have access to exclusive situations. There are helps keep you connected deals that can include a number of travel with old and new friends free nights, free inclusions insurance companies and with a new experience or discounted seniors’ that specialise in travel every day, you’re engaged or veterans’ rates. Travel insurance for seniors and and stimulated. agents will work with you, as the saying goes, “If so you can still be involved you can’t afford travel in all the decisions but take insurance, then you can’t advantage of their knowledge and access to afford to travel”. better prices. There are more benefits than you’ll ever Join a club know Whether you are a golfer, a gardener, a Research confirms it. Travelling in your later knitter or a traveller, there is a community years is good for you. Those who travel tend club for you. Meetings are held regularly to be more happy and active. It’s linked to and because you share a common interest, boosting physical, cognitive and social health in conversations flow freely. Often these clubs seniors. It helps keep you connected with old are the starting point for the idea of travelling and new friends and with a new experience together. Maybe you’ll make a new friend who every day, you’re engaged and stimulated. No is interested in travelling with you, or maybe doubt that travelling in the later years helps the entire group will have something planned. promote healthy ageing, so what are you If you’re a natural organiser, you could even waiting for … Get on board!

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Excited is an understatement! We’ve been super busy here at Quadrant preparing our new catalogue for 2020. You will still find some of our most popular tours of Ireland, UK and Scotland. But new for 2020 is our Farming in Ireland and UK tour, where we’ve picked the best of the best and included it in a fresh and exciting new tour. Or perhaps you’d prefer more of a European experience, with farming tours to Scandinavia and Finland or Northern Italy and Switzerland. And not to forget the USA and Canada, with choices including the Calgary Stampede and our revamped USA Beef Tour. Quadrant Ag Tours located in Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour have more than 30 years’ experience in the touring business, and yet they are thrilled to launch the first ever Horse Deals Equine Tour of USA. Behind the scenes we’ve been working hard with our partners to offer you the chance

to explore Agricultural Highlights of Turkey, including ANZAC Day at Gallipoli, bound to become the trip of a lifetime. Perhaps our most exciting new tour is part of our Africa and Middle East range; heading off in November 2020 is the Agricultural Innovation in Israel tour. And if you are looking at some local options and, our first love, Australia - there are more tours than ever to choose from, including a brand-new Victoria and NSW tour and our popular Kimberley and Top End Tours returning in 2020. Contact us or drop in for a copy of our 2020 catalogue. We think it’s our best yet, with something for everyone. Whether you have a week or a month to spare, whether you’ve never been overseas before or are an experienced traveller, we are certain you’ll find a tour you’ll love. Let 2020 be the year you say YES to new adventures!

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WITH SAM DAWSON OF PFLAG COFFS COAST

Brad & Leigh

Brad is a Coffs Harbour local who now resides in Melbourne with his fiancé, Leigh. I had the pleasure of chatting to these grooms to find out more about their special day and to also find out how important marriage equality is for them.

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ongratulations to you both. How did you guys meet? Thanks! We met at a mutual friend’s birthday party in Brisbane. It turned out that we both worked in the same industry and both played and reffereed basketball - being from Victoria, it was surprising that he even knew some people from the Coffs Harbour Suns and had Reffereed State League games at Sportz Central. I heard the proposal was the talk of Melbourne who proposed, and how did you do it? I surprised Leigh on Valentine’s Day last year. Ever since we moved to Melbourne he had wanted to take a horse and carriage ride, so I told him we were going for a spin for Valentine’s Day. He would have been suspicious if I did it any other day. Our carriage took us to the Botanic Gardens, where I had an elaborate set up inside a rotunda with roses, champagne, photos, our favourite music and rugs set up to enjoy the moment. The only hitch was that it was right near a concert at the Sidney Meyer Music Bowl, so we had hundreds of onlookers wishing us their congratulations on the way past. Where are you getting married, and how is the organising going? The organising is shaping up well, and I’m really excited for the big day. Highlights have been cake tasting and checking out bands, but there is a lot more than I thought we would need to consider. We are planning the honeymoon to Northern Italy at the moment, so there has been lots of red wine and pasta to help that process along. The ceremony is at The Langham and the reception is at Eureka 89, above the observation deck with 360

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degree views all over Melbourne. Leigh’s beloved Geelong Coffs Harbour. There is a lot of LGBTIQ visibility and role Cats are playing the same night, so he will be keeping an models in larger cities like Melbourne and Sydney, which eye on the action out towards the MCG. Melbourne is a make it easier for young people to come out and to be beautiful city, and we are really excited to show it off. their authentic selves, and for families to support each The YES vote has been so other. PFLAG in Coffs Harbour is important for so many reasons. a great network to bridge that Why is it special for you both to visibility and support gap which be able to get married in May would otherwise be missing. Being this year? a young gay person in the country Neither of this knew how The YES vote was a very big can be difficult, and any resources much of an impact moment. I was outside Parliament in available will make a meaningful it would have on us Brisbane crying on the phone with difference to a lot of lives. individually, and we are excitement to Leigh when it was Would you have liked this excited to declare our love announced. The whole process was readily available for your for each other in front of taxing to the LGBTIQ community, families when you “came out” our family and friends in with a reported increase in mental ? the same way that the rest of health issues before the postal vote. Our parents were quite our family have been able to do. Conversely, the YES announcement supportive, but I have friends seemed to solidify support for the whose parents have disowned community and help people feel them as a result of their religious that a real change for equality was or cultural beliefs, and it’s made after decades of unequal rights. heartbreaking for them. PFLAG aims to keep families Neither of us knew how much of an impact it would together and has real power to change the lives of the have on us individually, and we are excited to declare our extended families LGBTIQ people. It’s an organisation I love for each other in front of our family and friends in the support and encourage both LGBTIQ people and their same way that the rest of our family have been able to do. families to reach out to for help, support or a friendly face. It was important to us that our relationship was treated Finally, any important tips or tricks that you would equally, because for us it’s a lifelong commitment. like to share on preparing your big day? Do you think organisations like PFLAG (Parents We are planning to only get married once, so we and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) are important in have gone all out. For us it’s been important to enjoy our communities to educate and support families, the process and to enjoy connecting with our family and especially our young ones in the LGBTIQ community? friends. PFLAG and similar organisations are essential in the Thank you both, and all the best for a brilliant LGBTIQ community and more so in regional centres like wedding! (I secretly hope I get invited!)

Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

Coastal Wedding Collective Open Day

B R E A K F R E E

AANUKA B E A C H C O F F S

R E S O R T

H A R B O U R

The Coffs Coast is renowned for its world-class beaches, stunning hinterland and coastal headlands that are the perfect backdrop to celebrate your special wedding day.

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reakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, located in Coffs Harbour on the NSW North Coast is the ultimate venue for a romantic coastal wedding; the resort is set amongst 15 acres of subtropical gardens located on beautiful Diggers Beach. The resort is the complete Coffs Coast venue, offering wedding ceremonies, reception venues and accommodation options all onsite. Opt to celebrate your ceremony in style with a beach ceremony on golden sand stretching out to the blue waves of the Pacific Ocean, say I do on the beachside lawns with the waves breaking as the backdrop, or create special memories in the beautiful onsite cedar chapel or romantic chapel courtyard garden. The resort chapel is set amongst sub-tropical gardens located by a fresh water lagoon. Inside your ceremony will be flooded with natural light streaming through etched glass windows, while the courtyard outside features a renaissance stone fountain for that special romantic touch. With room for up to 100 guests, the air-conditioned chapel is a great onsite wet weather option. A day of pure romance can be captured at the numerous resort onsite photo opportunities, to create special memories of your wedding day. BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort has four stunning reception venues to select from, three of which all have magnificent views of Diggers Beach, including the option of having your reception on the manicured lawns with the beach as your backdrop under the twinkling night stars, bringing a magical element to your beautiful day.

The resort’s onsite specialist wedding coordinators have a wealth of knowledge and experience and can assist you from the initial enquiry through to being by your side on the day. The resort also has a number of local highly recommended wedding suppliers to assist you in creating the wedding of your dreams. Ask the resort’s dedicated wedding team about the fantastic Winter Wedding packages, to create a winter wonderland wedding. For those who are dreaming of a smaller celebration, the resort offers a fantastic number of elopement packages, available Monday - Thursday. When it comes to the wedding night, the newlyweds and their guests can take advantage of discounted accommodation packages from hotel studio rooms up to four bedroom villas, including a complimentary night for the couple in a beautiful Paradise Spa Bure, including a full buffet breakfast for two when a reception is booked for at least 30 adults. As for honeymooners, so many special moments are to be found when walking hand in hand through the resort’s 15 acres of sub-tropical gardens, strolling on the adjacent beachfront or sharing a romantic meal at the onsite café, restaurant and bar. Relax or find your own adventure with the many resort facilities, including five swimming pools, a cave spa and water slide, three tennis courts, beach volleyball, mini putt putt golf, or head out for a day trip to see the sights of the surrounding township and coastline. For more information or to arrange a site inspection to create your dream wedding, call (02) 6652 7555 or visit www.breakfree.com.au/ aanuka-beach/

Image Credit Peter Sechi

Saturday, 8 February 2020 9:00am – 1:00pm FREE entry and on-site parking

You’re invited to experience the ultimate Coffs Coast wedding venue. Enjoy sparkling wine and canapés while you take a tour of our idyllic ceremony and reception spaces, styled and themed for you to picture your celebrations. Our on-trend suppliers will be on hand to collectively craft your perfect day.

Open Day Special Book your wedding in 2020 within 7 days of the open day and secure 50% off* venue reception and ceremony hire. PLUS an additional night in a Paradise Spa Bure, including breakfast for two and a complimentary lemonade stand with lawn games for your pre-reception.

BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour Visit breakfree.com.au

*T&Cs apply. Book by 15 February 2020. Minimum 40 adults to receive the offer. Discount applies to 2020 weddings only.

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Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

aisle

Sdown MtheI L E Your wedding day is a landmark event in life and, naturally, everyone is keen to get it just right. It’s the day you show your partner how much you love them, surrounded by family and friends.

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t The Dental Centre, we love of this system is that we can take a scan this time too. We have been of your teeth and give you an idea of how fortunate for more then 25 years they could look after treatment, before you to have been able to play a part consider going ahead. Even better, we offer in the wedding preparations the scan and the evaluation at no cost. We of many couples and their families. This also offer complimentary teeth whitening at might be something as simple as a scale and the end of your orthodontic programme. polish ready for the big day, or more complex Teeth whitening can be undertaken in the restorative or orthodontic treatment to really chair in one session or over a week or two achieve the perfect smile for the wedding while wearing trays during the night. This is photographs. a relatively simple way of Cosmetic dentistry making a big difference to has come a long way your smile. in the last few years, If your teeth are poorly Cosmetic dentistry has come a with new technology shaped, badly discoloured long way in the last few years, with and materials expanding or heavily filled, then more new technology and materials the treatment options complex treatment may expanding the treatment options we can offer. Our three be warranted. This could we can offer. Our three most most popular treatments involve either composite popular treatments would be orthodontic or porcelain veneers: would be orthodontic alignment, whitening, these are facings that are alignment, whitening, and crowns or veneers. bonded to the front surface and crowns or veneers. Orthodontic correction of the tooth to mask the for adults has become underlying poor aesthetics. quite mainstream. Occasionally, crowns or Traditional braces can have ceramic brackets bridges may be necessary. for improved aesthetics, or an increasingly If you are at all interested in any of the popular option is the use of clear aligners. procedures we can offer to help you “smile We use the Invisalign system at The Dental down the aisle”, then don’t hesitate to get Centre: this is a computer-generated series of in touch. A consultation allows you to come clear aligners that gently move your teeth into and discuss your own personal situation with better alignment. They are very well tolerated one of our dentists without any obligation to by adults, as they are hardly noticeable from a commit to treatment. Our friendly staff will conversation distance and can be removed for make sure you feel relaxed and at home at eating and drinking. One of the great features The Dental Centre.

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Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

S o u t h We s t R o c k s

COUNTRY CLUB Located in the idyllic, seaside town on the Mid North Coast of NSW, South West Rocks Country Club is the perfect spot to host your special day. Our versatile venue enables us to accommodate a range of wedding styles, including formal sit down, cocktail, indoors or outdoors, as well as many leisure and fun activities.

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ur indoor event spaces are equipped with modern facilities and privacy and can be reconfigured in alignment with your particular vision to ensure that you are more than satisfied with the space. Our Functions Manager Kim will be working collaboratively with you throughout the entire planning process. Along with all of our attentive staff, Kim always works meticulously to ensure that your wedding with us is one to remember. Indoor or outdoor weddings & receptions We have three spacious and adaptable areas at our club which are ideal for weddings of all types. Our luscious 18-hole golf course is perfect for those outdoor wedding ceremonies. Enveloped by fresh air and surrounded by lots of malleable space, this option will enable you to arrange and organise your wedding day exactly how you’d like. Not to mention,

it provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photographs! Our BBQ Terrace provides a more relaxed and casual atmosphere fit for more intimate wedding parties. The BBQ terrace is equipped with a private bar and dedicated bar staff who will ensure that all your drink-related needs are met. This space can be used for associated wedding gatherings such as hens and bucks parties, receptions, or welcoming drinks and nibbles prior to or following the wedding ceremony. There are a range of different canapé, buffet and platter options available through our in-house caterers as well. Our newly refurbished auditorium is the largest available space in the area, seating up to 300 people. With the option between formal sit down meals, buffet or cocktail, this space can accommodate for your entire wedding party and, with the help of our dedicated Functions Manager Kim, can be designed and

organised based on your vision for your special day. You will be provided with a private bar, dedicated bar staff, complete AV setup and a projector, a dance floor and use of the stage. Bucks’ & Hen’s Parties We’ve got a wide range of fun activities for hens’ and bucks’ events, including our 18-hole golf course, lawn bowls, tennis and even our newly opened tenpin bowling alley and bar Social Alley. This modern facility is fully functional, with its own bar, dining area, and private cabanas with a range of different drink and food packages on offer. You can pick to hire out the entire space or a partial section the choice is yours. At South West Rocks Country Club, we pride

ourselves on our ability to accommodate for all types of weddings. Our staff always strive to exceed expectations and will consistently go above and beyond to ensure that you’re more than satisfied with the progression of your day. Stay & Play Packages Perfect for pre or post wedding celebrations, we also offer Stay & Play packages. These provide both accommodation and leisure activities tailored just for you. If you would like any assistance or information regarding these packages, please contact Faye on (02) 6566 6252. Mention this ad to receive FREE ROOM HIRE for your event valued up to $330. We can’t wait to hear from you!

SOUTH WEST

Say ‘I Do’ AT SOUTH WEST ROCKS

SPECIAL FOCUS OFFER: Mention this ad to receive FREE ROOM HIRE for your event valued up to $330.

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At South West Rocks Country Club our wedding coordinator Kim understands the months of effort and time spent planning to ensure your special day is nothing short of perfect. From pre-wedding celebrations such as bucks and hens parties to the wedding ceremony and reception, our team will work with you to ensure your wedding celebration is just as you dreamed it would be. Just a short 1 1/2 hour drive from Coffs Harbour, it's the perfect destination wedding venue. ● Indoor and Outdoor ceremony & reception venues ● Bucks & Hens Parties ● Play & Stay packages with Golf, Lawn Bowls & Ten Pin Bowling ● Flexible Catering & Beverage packages available SOUTH WEST ROCKS COUNTRY CLUB 2 Sportmans Way South West Rocks NSW 2431 www.rockscountryclub.com.au functions@rockscountryclub.com.au 02 6566 6252

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Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

CAROLINE

LAINE R E A L

W E D D I N G

When Caroline met Timo, she knew there was something special between them, and after a surprise proposal they tied the knot on a property in Bellingen, surrounded by their grown kids, family and friends.

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i Caroline. Can you tell us a little about your story here on the Coffs Coast? I love the coast and the lifestyle it has afforded me and my two children, Annelies and Sam. I am fortunate to have found a great work/life balance. I’ve lived on the Coffs Coast for 13 years this stint and am probably better known locally under my previous surname, “Bleechmore” and as the Marketing Manager for the Bachrach Naumburger Group. I look after the marketing for Park Beach Plaza, Park Beach HomeBase and Orana Mall in Dubbo.

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My husband, Timo Laine, is originally from Sweden; he runs Bellingen Painting Services and has been living in Bellingen for the last 10 years with his three children, Josh, Eden and Bronte. Our story is about the blending of our two beautiful families. You were married recently congratulations! What was the proposal like? Thank you! The proposal was very unexpected. There was no question in my mind that Timo and I were building a future together, but we had never talked about marriage; I wasn’t even sure if getting married

a second time was a thing everything fell into place. for either of us. Our stunning venue, IT’S HARD TO We’d spent a few days Rose Gum Retreat in EXPLAIN REALLY, sitting at the bedside of Bellingen is owned by BUT WE BOTH my dying dad, but knew one of Tim’s customers KNEW WE’D FOUND we had to leave, as Dad and when painting there SOMETHING UNIQUE was too proud to want one day, he Facetimed AS SOON AS WE MET. family at his side in his me and said, “Let’s final hours. So, it was get married here”. We there at my dying dad’s caught up with the beside that Tim proposed owners, Alison and and asked my dad for my hand in marriage. It Roger, and they were delighted we’d asked was quite surreal. Dad died a few days later, and happily reserved some dates for us. The and it’s incredibly special to me that he is lovely Sam Dawson from Married By Sam just resting in peace, knowing that his youngest happened to have the same dates free, so we daughter is happy. locked in our date. Can you tell us about how you and your Did you have a particular style or theme husband met? When did you realise he for the wedding? was the one for you? The beautiful passionfruit vine on the I guess you can call it a modern-day love balcony of Rose Gum Retreat really became story. We actually met online, we chatted our theme for invitations, grazing table and for a few weeks and then when we finally cake decorations, plus I wanted tulips included got the opportunity, we met up for a drink in my flowers in memory of my dad, who was which turned into dinner, a second date a Dutch. few days later - and that was it. It’s hard to We just wanted everything to be relaxed, explain really, but we both knew we’d found simple and easy, to reflect our no fuss attitude. something unique as soon as we met. The beauty of a second wedding is we got What were some of the first things you to set the rules, and we knew what was organised for the wedding? important to us. Aside from the ceremony We were originally thinking of eloping itself, which we personalised to reflect our overseas. However, after a few months of relationship, we wanted to have a party with looking at options, we realised the most our family and friends. important thing to us was involving our Can you tell us about some of the vendors kids, as they were all very excited about the you used? wedding. Once we reached that decision, I’m just so impressed with our local vendors;

Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

the service, professionalism, quality, reliability we experienced were fabulous. Markell Hughes from The Platter Effect is amazing; she has an eye for presentation that turns a grazing table into a visual feast. My dress was made by Melanie Jayne, car hire was with Mirror Image Weddings, Sam Dawson from Married By Sam guided us through personalising our ceremony, hair was by Daisy Llewellyn Hair and Makeup, makeup by Bindy McCarthy Makeup, furniture and lighting hire from Special Occasions, DJ supplied by Oppy Entertainment, cake by Rustic Cake Couple, photography by Gavin Moroney, our rose petals were from Oliver Collins from Roses Naturally and of course, our Airbnb venue Rose Gum Retreat; we supplied our own beverages and flowers. Did you have a vision for the kind of dress you wanted? I had no idea and wasn’t even sure how traditional I should go! All I knew is what I didn’t like! What were some of the standout

moments from the … Life doesn’t get much FOR US, OUR wedding for you? better than this!” WEDDING WAS ABOUT For us, our wedding When we turned into THE BLENDING OF was about the blending the driveway of the OUR TWO FAMILIES of our two families and venue, unbeknown to AND CELEBR ATING celebrating our love with me, Timo had made a OUR LOVE WITH family and friends. There couple of hand painted FAMILY AND FRIENDS. were so many stand signs to read as we drove out moments, but one up, “Sweet Caroline” of the highlights by far and “I Love You”. I heard was our Kombi ride from the girls’ reaction from home to the venue. Mirror Image Weddings the seat in front of me and then saw the signs were amazing, so professional, and Annelies, myself … I’d been so composed until then, but Eden and Bronte had an absolute ball. Our I lost it; he is such a romantic. decision to hire the Kombi was intended to My son walking me down the aisle was be something special and memorable for special; I felt so proud to have my man child by our daughters, and it was. From the music my side. I know my dear old dad would have selection, the drinks provided, the suggestion loved nothing more to have been there and of the route to take for photo opportunities to would have been so proud of Sam for fulfilling the actual Kombi, it was such a fun experience this duty. to have shared with the girls; we sang, we Timo’s youngest daughter, Bronte sang a laughed, and we even cried. As my daughter beautiful solo rendition of Hallelujah as part of said along the way, “Driving down a country our ceremony, and Timo’s vows will go down road, singing to cool music in a retro Kombi in history as the most heartfelt, yet hysterical

unscripted vows ever heard at a wedding. Everybody cried, laughed, cried and laughed again. Where did you honeymoon? And how did you come to choose that destination? We didn’t get to share our misspent youth together, so we thought while we still can we’d throw caution to the wind. We hired a moped and literally backpacked around Bali for two weeks, spontaneously booking luxury accommodation as we went. We did about 500 km exploring and loved every minute. We chose Bali after a great visit the year prior for my 50th, where we got a taste and knew we wanted to explore more. What are you enjoying most about married life? Everything ... especially being Mrs Laine! Life is great; we are living on the bank of the Kalang River at Urunga, so every day feels like a holiday. We love the journey our blended family is taking us on, and we are enjoying planning more travel adventures. Thanks Caroline.

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Photo by Shaun Gibbs

YOUR PERFECT Wedding Venue Opal Cove Resort specialises in wedding ceremonies and receptions, making it the perfect venue for your special day. Let us make this day one you will remember forever. Say, “I do” surrounded by nature, your family and friends. At Opal Cove Resort, we offer exclusivity; we have only one ceremony per day, ensuring that you and your guests can relax and enjoy the facilities.

KIM PIPER Celebrant In my career as a Marriage Celebrant, I deal in the world of love and feelings. Relationships, attraction and even fate. The feeling of finding someone who makes your heart race, and knees go weak, along with being the one you can always rely on, is an amazing thing! That moment when you know, this is the one! For me, it is always an honour to meet with couples and hear the story of how they met. The twists and turns of life that has bought them to today, and their desire to make this ultimate commitment. Sometimes it’s the high school sweethearts who met when they were 13 and have grown together, to the couple who dated in their teens, lost touch and have reconnected decades later. Everyone a beautiful story that I have the privilege of crafting into their personal ceremony. A ceremony they will remember forever.

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With an idyllic beachside location and fabulous views to the Solitary Islands, look no further than Opal Cove Resort Coffs Harbour. Capture the moment on your wedding day with a variety of ceremony locations, featuring amazing views of ocean, lagoon and garden backdrops. Our picturesque and stylishly appointed reception venues make the perfect location to celebrate your special day. If natural lighting and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean are what you want, then Opals function room is ideal. For larger weddings, our ballroom will be sure to impress; featuring high ceilings, endless theming options, it can accommodate up to 300 guests, with plenty of room for dancing and entertainment. A spectacular backdrop for photos and special memories is right here at Opal Cove Resort, Coffs Harbour. Set in an idyllic location, with luxury accommodation options, exquisite cuisine and quality service from a professional team, you and your guests may never want to leave! Our events team will guide you in making the most important day of your life stress free and memorable. Contact them on (02) 6651 0553 or email: weddings@ opalcove.com to tailor a wedding package just for you!

Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

Bella CABELLO HAIR

CARMEL KESTLES

Belinda Chalker from the Bella Cabello and makeup artist Carmel Kestles are not only 2020 brides’ choice finalists, but are leading in their fields of expertise. The duo met in 2014, where they instantly clicked; they noticed that their style and work ethics complemented each other, and the pair haven’t looked back since ...

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ell us what you do together? We’ve been teaming up over the last few years offering mobile service for hair and makeup packages. We service areas from Tweed Heads to Port Macquarie and all surrounding areas. What do you both love about your weddings and work? “We both love ... love! We love being there a part of it. We love the excitement of the bridesmaids, the emotions of the mum/ grandmother or when the father or the brother of the bride see her ... it’s a magical moment! Carmel, your area is makeup. Any tips for our brides and bridesmaids? Yes! I suggest having a bridal preview. It’s a great way for us to get to know each other.

Previews can also help with working out what you don’t like as opposed to what you do like - especially for those who have no idea what they are wanting. I suggest looking at images to get an idea of what you’re after; look for girls around the same age, who have the same hair, skin tone and eye colour as you. It will give you a more realistic idea of how it may look. Also, if you are considering a spray tan for your big day - I suggest having one for your preview also - especially if you have never had one before! Getting a spray tan two days before your event is always best. Bel, tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. I have been hairdressing for 14 years, and before I moved to Coffs I had been living and working in Melbourne at a well known top salon. I was apart of the salon creative team there, which meant I was able to be a

part of a lot of photoshoots, competitions and runways shows for some pretty amazing brands like Nike, Lululemon and Myer. I then went on to join and become a Kevin Murphy session stylist and had the privilege of joining Kevin and his team at Melbourne spring fashion week. From there, my love and appreciation for bridal hair came, styling hair so that it is still natural, beautiful and moves with the bride - that is what is important to me. Do you have any tips for bridal hair prep before the big day? Yes, I agree with Carmel: if you can, do a trial! It just gives me a chance to meet

beforehand and let’s me get a feel of who you are and what the whole vibe of the style you are going for is. Also, washing the day before! Two really good shampoos, making sure to scrub that scalp, and conditioner only on the ends. The day of the wedding, hair should be dry and ready to go. How can we book you both? We can be booked separately or together. We honestly don’t mind. We love working with and supporting our fellow stylists and artists in the industry, BUT we also thrive and love working together - we think our brides love it too!

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Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

David Moore of The Moores

Claire Searle Photography

ONE DAY W E D D I N G S

&

E V E N T S

We recently sat down with Mikhayla Carey who is the powerhouse behind One Day Weddings & Events to talk about how couples can make the most of their big day and have zero stress!

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i Mikhayla; thanks for taking the time to chat with us today! We know you’re the expert when it comes to everything weddings; can you tell us a bit more about what you and your amazing team does? What is One Day Weddings & Events? We are a team of wedding planners, coordinators, stylists and set up crew. We take on a fresh approach and work closely with all our couples to get to know them and create a wedding that is unique to them individually. We can be as involved as little or as much as you need, whether you need some help executing your plans to make things run smoothly, or you want to hand the reins over and let us create your

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day from scratch. We are there to problem solve and handle all the logistics, so you don’t have to. Why is it so important to have a wedding planner? I think a lot of people underestimate the amount of hours that go into planning a wedding. The time spent emailing back and forth, on the phone to suppliers, meetings, budgeting, working out runsheets etc. - it all adds up quickly. In most cases when couples book us, they have not been married before and they have never planned a wedding before, so they can often be overwhelmed by the amount of options and choices out there and they will often not know where to start. So, it makes sense to hire someone who knows what it takes to

pull everything together to create a seamless and cohesive wedding day. Not only in the planning process but on the day itself, having a dedicated coordination team to execute your plans is worth its weight in gold for your peace of mind on the day. Do you offer on the day coordination? Yes, we do! Although, we have recently renamed this to “Month of Coordination”, as we would often begin helping and working around four - six weeks before the wedding. It is one of our most popular packages and is perfect for those couples who are happy to do all of the booking, planning and scheduling beforehand, but would like a dedicated wedding coordinator to ensure all of their plans are executed and make sure the day runs smoothly. This package is really great for venues that do not have any on-site venue coordinators, such as private properties etc. It means you and your guests can all enjoy

the day, knowing any issues will be handled by a professional. What do you love most about your job? Hands down the best part is when we have worked with a couple from the very beginning and we have curated their entire wedding for them. From sketching out the designs, choosing the colour palette, handpicking their vendors suited especially for them and then seeing all of those plans and elements that are often a year in the making all come together seamlessly gives me a smile from ear to ear. Seeing the look on our couples’ faces when their day exceeds their expectations and getting a big hug at the end of the night. There is nothing better. What is your biggest tip to give couples who have their big day coming up? Firstly: book early! We are already booked out for 2020 and have been since last year. We are already taking bookings for 2021, and I know many other suppliers book out quickly. Secondly: enjoy the engagement! It will go by so fast, and your wedding day will be here before you know it. Of course, I am going to say “hire a wedding planner!” Let us deal with all the spreadsheets, budgets, runsheets, emails, phone calls etc. so you can enjoy the fun stuff - like finding the perfect dress! How do people find out more about what you and your team offer? Visit our website to view our previous work at www.onedayweddingsandevents.com.au or send us an email at info@onedayweddingsandevents.com.au

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Let The Day Sparkle Vanessa Dobbs is the owner of the new Let The Day Sparkle Weddings and Events - a wedding event planner here in Coffs Harbour. We wanted to explore what Vanessa does ‌ What is Let The Day Sparkle all about? We are a specialist wedding planning business passionate about crafting breathtakingly beautiful weddings on the NSW Mid North Coast. We are dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our clients, from venue selection right through to the magic moments the bride walks down the aisle. Combining our passion for celebrating love with our meticulous eye for detail, we will seamlessly execute your big day. Do you offer various packages? At Let The Day Sparkle, we’re happy to help as much or as little as you need! We are a full service wedding provider covering all aspects of the wedding journey. Our packages include: On the Day Coordination; Wedding Week; Month Out Planning and Coordination; Partial Planning; and the Whole Shebang. Whatever package you choose, we will ensure we craft the perfect wedding that reflects you as a couple, meets your budget and most importantly, is seamless - allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy this special time. How can couples get in touch? If you would like to hear more about how we can help you on your big day, please get in touch! Visit us at www. letthedaysparkle.net - email us at info@letthedaysparkle.com or check out our Instagram page at letthedaysparkle. We welcome all enquiries and are offering 20% off package prices for bookings made before the end of Febuary 2020.

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C O F F S

C O A S T

We d d i n g

EXPO

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2020 COFFS COAST WEDDING EXPO SET FOR PACIFIC BAY R ESORT

he Coffs Coast Wedding Expo is set to return bigger and better than ever in 2020. The event, which has gained a reputation as a must do for North Coast brides to be, will leave its home of 16 years at Bonville Golf Resort and find a new residence at Pacific Bay Resort, giving the event a whole new energy. Group Sales Manager Stephanie Kesby said, “The event continues to grow each year, and moving the expo over to Pacific Bay Resort will allow for a bigger and better event with more exhibitors and attendees.” In addition to boasting over 50 key exhibitors, including photographers, bridal and formal wear, cake decorators, transportation, celebrants, wedding venues, jewellery, health and wellbeing specialists and styling and decorating, event organisers have a full day out planned for attendees. “We have a full day planned for the 2020 event. We’re speaking with an exciting

new beverage sponsor who will supply welcome drinks; we have incorporated a wine bar that will complement a full itinerary of presentations and wedding workshops throughout the day,” Stephanie says. Brides and grooms-to-be can spend the day getting industry leading tips and advice on how to plan the perfect wedding. There will be entertainment on the decks of Bayside Bar and Grill throughout the day, making the perfect location for friends and family to enjoy a spot of lunch. There will be a major prize draw with some $7,500 worth of prizes on offer, including pamper packages, hair and makeup packages, holiday packages, wedding car rentals and more. The 17th Annual Coffs Coast Wedding Expo will be held on Sunday 14th June 2020 in the tropical surrounds of Pacific Bay Resort. ENTRY IS FREE and exhibitor registrations open on February 5th at www. pacificbayresort.com.au/weddings/expo

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WEDDING

EXPO SUNDAY 14 june 2020

EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION OPEN 5TH FEB

www.pacificbayresort.com.au/wedding /expo Coffs Coast focus 55

Coffs Coast WEDDING Guide

VALLEY LODGE

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verlooking the Dorrigo Mountain Ranges and the Bellinger Valley, this gorgeous hotel is a 10 minute walk (1.2 km) to the township of Bellingen. Set on 16 acres of lush, green gardens, our little piece of paradise can feel a world away, while still offering everything you need to ensure your day is unique and memorable. The stunning backdrop of the mountain range, combined with the picturesque gardens of our exclusive estate is what many couples fall in love with and is why we proudly host so many weddings here at Bellingen Valley Lodge. Our purpose built Ceremony Arbour overlooks the beautiful Bellinger Valley, so you can take in the stunning views as you say “I do”. Bellingen Valley Lodge is a stylish venue with the capacity to seat 110

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inside for a sit-down celebration and 120 seated on the outdoor terrace, or 300 for an elegant cocktail garden celebration under the festoon lighting. Our restaurant is currently being renovated with new hardwood floors, furnishings and interiors including outdoor terrace area, to complete our unique offering. Bellingen Valley Lodge is excited to announce the collaboration with the famed ‘The Hilltop Store’ Sawtell. Acclaimed chefs and husband and wife team, Carla and Ritchie met while working alongside one another at Aria, Sydney. They bring with them world class experience, heading up some of Australia’s best known restaurants, Aria and Chiswick, and Carla as head chef and co-owner of 4 Fourteen in Surry Hills, along with Carla’s lifelong friend and restaurateur Matt, who runs an impressive team front of house.

Celebrate your wedding day over a delicious menu expertly curated by some of the country’s top chefs. We offer a broad range of both formal or informal dining options, including canapés, shared plates, or two and three course sit down options, paired with an impressive range of beverages from our well stocked bar. When thinking about accommodation for your wedding guests, look no further. Bellingen Valley Lodge offers 28 rooms

uniquely positioned to take in the breathtaking views. All rooms have free Wi-Fi and flat screen TVs. There’s a restaurant, bar and outdoor pool to relax and enjoy with your guests over your wedding celebrations, plus 2 new luxury glamping tents located to capture the stunning mountain views. Our boutique style and beautiful location creates a special atmosphere where you and your loved ones can gather to share in a completely unique and intimate experience.

Matt Loretan Jewellery Often buying a wedding ring that will sit neatly next to an engagement ring is an almost impossible task. Many engagement rings will require a wedding ring that has a curve or even a cut-out in order to make the two rings sit comfortably together. Buying “off the shelf� is not often an option, as every ring is unique. The only way to get exactly what you need is to have a ring custom made. The fitted wedding ring process begins with a personalised design consultation (free of charge) with Matt in his Coffs Harbour studio. This typically takes up to an hour; if you have an idea in mind, it is recommended that you bring along any images that capture your imagination. However, if you are unsure, that’s fine too. Similarly, if you have any existing pieces of jewellery that you would like to use for materials, it is important to also bring these with you on the day. Matt will discuss a range of aspects with you, from aesthetic preferences, sentimental or emotional influences to lifestyle or occupational considerations. He will then consider structural integrity into the mix and begin to formulate design options. Usually he will begin with a hand drawn sketch, and then later may create a digital image to assist with finalising the design and quoting. Once the design and quote have been agreed upon, a 50% deposit is required for materials to be ordered and / or work to begin. Time frames can vary, so it is important to discuss this at the time of your consultation. It is recommended that you allow four - six weeks for most custom makes.

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MIRROR IMAGE Weddings Welcome to our Kombi wedding hire service, Mirror Image Weddings! We are Jann and Wally of Mullaway, Mid North Coast, NSW. Mirror Image Weddings is the perfect solution for any couple getting married who are Kombi enthusiasts or prefer something a little out of the ordinary. We cater for weddings “only” with a 2 hour minimum hire within the Coffs Coast. Our purpose is to make the wedding party’s trip as enjoyable as we can on this life changing adventure. We love driving for weddings; it’s such a happy time and we cater to the needs on the day and are open to suggestions. We don’t aim to get there first, but get there in style. The journey to the wedding ceremony is a relaxing cruise, with music floating through the air tingling the wedding party’s earlobes. Nirvana and Mango are always noticed and bring smiles to those watching them cruise past. When the sun shines, their colours shine with it, and on a cloudy day they still shine as strong.

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Yarrawarra What do you offer couples who are looking to get married or hold events here? Our wedding packages can be tailored to suit the style and theme of your wedding, be it a casual and intimate affair in our central hall seating 150 guests, cocktail style or something more formal under marquees - personalised to suit your style and needs. Do you have ceremony and receptions options? Yes, the majority of our guests utilise our grounds to hold their wedding ceremony and reception in the same location. Our expansive grounds allow us to cater for larger groups, with a capability to host large marquees. What’s significant about this venue? NURALAMEE is nestled in 7 acres of peaceful bushland at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre. It features a central hall seating 150 guests, with onsite hostel style accommo-

dation for up to 70 people. With an array of picturesque photo opportunities nearby, including the Corindi River, Red Rock Headland, Corindi Beach, Pipe Clay Lake and the surrounding valleys and rainforests, couples can capture their precious memories. Our onsite catering team use seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers to create their unique menus. We will tailor the menu to suit your specific requirements. Every aspect of the day is tailored to the couple’s requirements: venue layout, catering, theming and decorations. We work closely with our couples to personalise every moment of their day; we will make their day happen. How do we get in contact and find out more? Contact our Hospitality Manager, Bob Palmer (02) 6640 7120. 69 Red Rock Road, Corindi Beach. manager@yarrawarra.com.au www.yarrawarra.com.au

WEDDING

STYLING LAUREN VESTEY

From modern upstyles to romantic waves and detailed braids, we are sharing the most on trend styles to help you find a look that is bride worthy, yet still feels like “you.” Even if you’re not entirely sure how you want to wear your hair on the big day, you probably have a general idea of whether you’d like to have it up or down, extensions or on the shorter side. Living Doll is here to get you started … CHIGNONS Brides are opting for a more effortless vibe with upstyles that are asymmetrical or have a softer, almost messy finish. If you have layers, leave them out to create an even softer look around the face.

BR AIDS Braided wedding hairstyles are hotter than ever - and it’s no coincidence when you take into account the surge of rustic-themed wedding affairs. However, when styled the right way, they can also be used for more formal settings as well. Halo braids, French plaits, undercut braids, braided buns, and fishtail plaits; however you want to wear them, this is one long-lasting trend that’s not going anywhere.

WAVES The trick to amazing waves is longevity - they need to be able to stand up to hours of posing for photos, embracing loved ones and busting a move on the dance floor - so don’t be shy when applying product, and bring hairspray to the reception for touch-ups. Balanced with some subtle sombré highlights to add definition and appeal, this look will last a life time.

RETRO-GLAM If you’re inspired by vintage wedding details,

borrow your hairstyle from a different decade, too, with curls and twists that would make any pin-up starlet jealous.

PONYTAIL Love wearing your hair up but a traditional chignon is just too formal for you? Dress up a basic ponytail with intricate curls and twists.

SHORT So long extensions are not you - minimalist pixies never looked so good. We’re psyched to see more brides embracing them on their wedding day as well!

HAIR ACCESSORIES From traditional veils, small tiaras, to gorgeous diamanté accessories, there is a look right for everyone. But if it is simply not your style, the ever-awesome flower crown isn’t going anywhere. We’ve used big blooms in hair for a while now, but it’s time for the pretty little ones. From dainty daisy crowns and tiny wildflowers dotted through your halo braid, to baby’s breath plaits, this is an easy trend to carry off, and a cool new twist on the muchloved fresh flower hairstyle. Hope this has given you some inspiration for one of the most special day of your life. XO Dolls Coffs Coast focus 59

focusinterview.

GAIL Raymond

Gail Raymond has always volunteered time to help others throughout her life, and currently she is working with the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, amongst other things. She is a caring, familiar face to most who have had to spend time there, and she is selfless in the amount of energy she puts into providing support to those going through a difficult time.

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i Gail. Tell us about your history here with the Coffs Coast community. I have been a member of VIEW Clubs of Australia for about 19 years and have held many executive positions, including a three year stint as Zone Councillor for the six clubs in this area from Woolgoolga to Bonville/ Boambee VIEW, wherein I hold the position of Vice President at the moment. VIEW or “Voice and Interests of Women” supports the Smith Family in Education for disadvantaged children, of which there are approximately over 300 in the Coffs Harbour area. I have been volunteering with NCCI for 20 years and have been Area Volunteer Co-Coordinator for “Look Good Feel Better” in the Coffs Harbour area for the same amount of time. I have been lucky to have been awarded Volunteer of the Year in NSW and ACT in both 2008 and 2015 from Look Good Feel Better, and Volunteer of the Year on Australia Day by the Coffs Harbour Shire Council. You volunteer at the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute. Can you tell us what inspired you to start volunteering? My interest in volunteering with the MNCCI (Mid North Coast Cancer Institute) probably was sparked by the fact that I am a retired RN. As this is a caring career, I guess it followed from that - apart from the fact that I have always done some form of volunteering from the age of 16, when I was a Cub Leader for the Boy Scouts in a little place called Bellbrook on the Upper Macleay. You coordinate the “Look Good, Feel Better” days for patients undergoing chemo. Can you explain to us what those 60 Coffs Coast focus

days are all about? Look Good Feel Better is a national charity and also runs in other countries throughout the world. Here in Coffs Harbour, the workshops happen seven times a year at the MNCCI. The workshops are conducted for any lady undergoing treatment for any cancer - not just for breast cancer or ladies who have lost their hair because of their treatment, which is a common misnomer. We have run men’s workshops in the past, where we talk about skin and scalp care, care in shaving and being aware of wearing sunscreen. Wearing a hat is also one of the things we discuss. If you hold your hat up to the sun and you can see through it, the UV rays will damage the skin, as you are more susceptible to sun damage when undergoing treatment. The workshops run for two hours, where I and my team of volunteers help the ladies to apply makeup and cope with some of the effects on their skin due to their cancer treatment. Not everyone has the same effects from the treatments, which are very individual. We also have a session on wigs, turbans and scarves, where we help ladies to tie scarves and varied turbans and headwear. Everyone walking past the Conference Room at the Cancer Institute on workshop days knows it is all happening by the fun and frivolity noise emanating from the room. What do you hope patients get out of participating in these days? We help with how to care for their skin and scalp, to how to apply and remove makeup. The ladies have fun trying on different wigs, scarves and turbans and talking with the other participants about some of their experiences. They walk away feeling confident and beautiful. Just a little hint concerning where to

to wear to bed to keep put your eyebrows if you I KNOW THAT THE have lost them can make their heads warm. Such LADIES WHO ATTEND such a difference. Many generous ladies to make OUR WORKSHOPS of the ladies swap phone so many for me. FEEL LESS ISOLATED numbers and stay in touch What is a typical day BY BEING WITH after the workshops, like for you at MNCCI? OTHERS IN A SIMILAR which is often valuable A typical day involves SITUATION. in their recovery. The providing all the patients workshops are absolutely undergoing treatment free to cancer patients, with refreshments and and they go home with sandwiches at lunch time. a lovely kit of cosmetics - which again is My favourite thing is chatting to and listening complimentary. The cosmetics are donated by to the patients in the treatment room and in the cosmetic companies of Australia. I know the radiotherapy and clinic waiting areas. I that the ladies who attend our workshops feel have met incredible people in the treatment less isolated by being with others in a similar room and during the workshops. Checking situation. Positivity, strength and confidence are the Cancer Council information booklets are some of the tools the ladies tell us they have in the racks and are the latest version is also benefited from by attending the workshops. important. Welcoming and introducing the We hear you’re pretty crafty. Can you tell new patients to each other on a Monday for us about the scarves, turbans and beanies education is really important, while the nurse you make? comes to do the actual session. For ladies who lose their hair because It’s quite amazing the amount of time of their treatment, I also run the Wig and and energy you put into helping others. Headwear Library together with my friend What sort of things do you get up to when Pauline. We have a lovely selection of wigs you’re not volunteering? which are bought by the Cancer Unit and hired I live with my husband on a grazing property to the ladies for as long as they need them. in Bellingen, where we graze several hundred Not everyone wants a wig. Even though the beef cattle in a fattening operation - so that wig may be rarely worn by some ladies, it is keeps us busy. We live on a very historic a comfort to know she has it if she feels the property that was settled by my husband’s need. grandfather in July 1897. Since I have closed I make headwear for the ladies, which my two B&B cottages, “Aunty Lil’s” in William consist of a wrap around variety, a cotton tie St, I have a bit more time to devote to my version and a selection of caps which can be stained glass, clock making, embroidery, worn on their own, or a scarf or headband gardening and supporting my husband in may be added for interest or colour. I have lots taking care of his stable of antique tractors and of lovely ladies in the community who make historic sulkies, carts etc. and donate “Night Beanies” for me from my pattern, so that I can give three to each patient Thanks Gail.

Tiarne Sweeney

LOCAL BROW TECHNICIAN Eyebrows are one of the most powerful facial features. They assist in accentuating the eyes, shaping the face, and play an important role in communication. Tiarne Sweeney is a talented local beauty therapist situated at Ella Baché, outside of Coffs Central. She is all about brows, specialising in eyebrow shaping: mapping, threading, waxing, and microblading. With over five years’ experience, she believes that with the right technique everyone can achieve the naturally full, timeless brows they’ve always hoped for. Microblading is a tattooing technique involving a small handheld tool that uses tiny needles to add a semipermanent pigment to the skin. Tiarne has undergone vigorous training in microblading, training with Phi (the largest microblading company in the world) for eight months, both online and with a practical trainer. It is concerning to note that in NSW microblading is not regulated; you do not need a beauty background and can complete a three day course to be qualified. With this, it is important to ensure your beauty therapist is experienced and appropriately trained before allowing them to tattoo your face. Tiarne is artistic and passionate and well and truly meets appropriate training requirements. Her customers leave satisfied and proud with their purchase.

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W I T H D U N C A N M A R C H A N T , C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s inspirational health and fitness story comes to us courtesy of Court Waters, who is a group fitness instructor, personal trainer and the assistant manager of Coffs Coast Health Club Moonee. Read about her here, and then pop in to see her at the Moonee club for all of your health and fitness needs!

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ave you always lived on the Coffs Coast? Yes, except for three years at uni and 12 months travelling/ living abroad. What do you love about the Coffs Coast? I like the relaxed atmosphere, the traffic is never terrible and there is lots of opportunity for leisure activities like bushwalking, swimming, kayaking and horse riding. Why did you decide to work at Coffs Coast Health Club? I had just returned from 12 + months abroad travelling and adventuring all over the world. I wanted to get back into teaching group fitness (something I had been doing before I left and while I was working overseas). I also wanted to work full-time in a gym and finish my PT course, so I could fully experience the fitness industry. Toormina and Moonee both suit my personality, and I love the members. What is your role at the club? I actually have several roles in the club. I teach group fitness classes, I have 1:1 personal training clients and I am also the assistant manager at Moonee. I pretty much do everything and anything in the club to ensure everyone is happy, safe and things are running as smoothly as possible. What types of activities do you enjoy outside of work? I’m a pretty active person. I train multiple times a day, teaching group classes, learning Muay Thai, Olympic lifting and CrossFit. In my spare time I still move lots, whether that be a morning kayak with my fit, inspirational mother, bush walking with one of the other PTs 62 Coffs Coast focus

in the club, or looking after my horse. What is your philosophy on healthy living? Find something you enjoy! If you don’t enjoy it you will not prioritise it, and then it gets neglected. I believe everyone should make the effort to move, for the good of their own health but also for everyone else around them. People who exercise regularly are generally happier and healthier in both their physical and mental health, and this carries over to who they are around other people and makes them easier to live with, whether they are a friend, family member or partner. What tips do you have for people looking to live a healthier life? Prioritise your activity! I understand not everyone has time to spend two plus hours exercising every day, but don’t make excuses. If you say you don’t have time, come and see me and I will show you how you could include more activity in your day. It may be a harsh truth though; I’ll ask to see the screen time you spend trolling Instagram or Facebook. Prioritise your health, ensure it stays near the top of your to do list and move more. My favourite quote is: “You don’t use it, you lose it!” This is so true in all movement, and our sedentary behaviours are the downfall of our easy lifestyle. Move more; you’ll be happier for it and you’ll be more capable of doing all you want in your life! Thanks for sharing, Court, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see her at Coffs Coast Health Club Moonee, to get started today. More inspirational fitness stories can be found at: www.myfitnessstory.com.au

STOP THE

LEAKS Does your pelvic floor need help?

Incontinence is a very common problem faced by people across their lifespan and is particularly common amongst women. Unfortunately, it can often be an issue which is ignored or left unchecked, as it can be embarrassing, it can hold you back from activities you enjoy - but it is largely treatable! Leading local physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker caught up with Sarah Brown, a physiotherapist with a special interest in women’s health, who is part of the Mid North Coast Physio team.

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ell us a bit about your background, Sarah? I grew up in Forster, on the Mid North Coast of NSW and always wanted to work in a field where I could help people achieve a better quality of life - so physiotherapy was a great fit! After studying at Newcastle Uni, I have been working around the Coffs Coast and have completed ongoing advanced training in women’s health physiotherapy. I’m really passionate about achieving great health outcomes for women and am looking forward to improving the quality of life for women in the area. I am consistently hearing unhappy stories from women whose lives are impacted by incontinence, but it’s something I want to change. What is incontinence? Incontinence is any involuntary or accidental loss of urine from the bladder (urinary incontinence) or any involuntary loss of bowel motion or wind from the bowel. It’s a really common problem, with as many as one in three women who have ever had a baby experiencing urinary incontinence. This can be due to several factors, including pelvic floor weakness. That’s why good pelvic floor health is so important. How can physio help? The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that sling between the pubic bone at the front of the pelvis and the tailbone, or coccyx,

at the back. These muscles help to control the bladder and the bowel. They also act to support the pelvic organs and therefore prevent pelvic organ prolapse. Like other muscles in the body, the pelvic floor muscles can be made stronger with exercise, which is where physio can help. A thorough assessment can help to work out exactly what is causing your incontinence and then you can begin a suitable exercise and treatment program for your needs. With many people performing pelvic floor exercises incorrectly, it is also really useful to have expert feedback on your technique. Why should people seek treatment for incontinence? The simple answer is because it can dramatically affect your quality of life. In many cases, incontinence can be treated or cured, so that you can cough, laugh, run or jump without worrying about leaking. It is also important to have a pelvic floor check before returning to sport after having a baby, to ensure that your body is ready to cope with an increase in exercise. Thanks for sharing, Sarah. If you’re a woman dealing with pelvic floor weakness or incontinence, Mid North Coast Physio is offering five FREE pelvic floor pre-assessments to meet Sarah and discuss your concerns. Call NOW on 1300 273 747 to secure an appointment before they are all gone.

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KINGDOM Denture Clinic

hat plans do you have for 2020? 2020 is going to be an exciting year for us. We are in the process of building a brand new laboratory to replace our current space. We have been here, alongside my father’s house for about 40 years and the business has outgrown the space, so we are currently developing a brand new clinic to better suit the needs of our patients. We hope to be in the new premises by the end of March. We have also hired some new staff to help out with the everyday running of the business and are looking forward to getting into a fresh space with some new faces to help us deliver the best possible service for our patients. How has the business grown since inception? Dad started the business over 40 years ago. Soon after, he moved it to the current location next to his house in Long St. As Coffs Harbour has grown, so too the business, and the current space can no longer cater effectively for our growing number of patients. This is why we have decided to move to a new premises. What have been the highlights, and what lessons have you learnt along the way? It has been a great ride so far. Becoming a prosthetist in 2013, after being a dental technician meant that I could deal directly with

the patient and help Dad out in the clinical aspect of the business. Nowadays, I am doing all of the clinical work, although Dad still comes in a couple of days a week to help out as a technician, so the roles have been reversed. Taking over the business completely at the start of 2018 was also exciting, and we have been able to implement some new technology that is helping us give great quality products to our patients. How important is customer service? Customer service is the most important aspect of any business. Without customers, you don’t have a business. We place a great emphasis on the experience that our patients get when they come to our practice. What are your core business values? The core values of our business are care, compassion and great service. Wearing a denture for the first time can be a daunting and challenging process, and our staff offer a very supportive practice and ongoing after sales service to make this transition as easy as it can be. What do you enjoy most about being in business on the Coffs Coast? Being able to run a business on the beautiful Coffs Coast, where I grew up, I feel so lucky. My husband and I are now raising our own children here and look forward to many more happy years here on the Coffs Coast.

Coffs Coast focus 63

WRITTEN BY: DR SHARON MARINUCCI

By age 65, over 50% of Australians have gum disease to some degree.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, IS A COMMON CAUSE OF BAD BREATH, TOOTH SENSITIVITY, LOOSE AND LOST TEETH, and the appearance of looking “long in the tooth”.

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ack in the day when most build up as “plaque”. Gingivitis is reversible people never brushed their if plaque removal is effective. The plaque teeth, their teeth would irritates the gums, causing them to become regularly swollen, red and bleed just start easily. Certain bacteria in falling the plaque cause the outer out, often by age 40 surface to calcify on the or so. Nowadays, it still teeth like cement, pretty Gum disease usually happens. Occasionally much in the same way a starts off as gingivitis. we see people lose teeth coral reef forms. This is Gingivitis is caused by doing simple things called tartar or calculus a build-up of bacteria like sneezing and most and is what your dental on the teeth due to poor of the time, if caught hygienist cleans away for tooth cleaning habits. early enough, it is nearly you. If left unchecked, entirely preventable. gingivitis will sometimes Gum disease usually progress to gum disease. starts off as gingivitis. Gingivitis is caused by a Gum disease develops when a person’s build-up of bacteria on the teeth due to poor body reacts to the inflamed gums by tooth cleaning habits. Dentists refer to this eating away the bone that supports the

teeth. Mostly it happens quite slowly, but in some people it can be very aggressive. Unfortunately it is not reversible, but in nearly every case it is possible to stabilise it. It is important for your dental practitioner to check your teeth and gums regularly, take regular X-rays and record any bone loss affecting your teeth, as this how they can tell if the process is stable or if it is getting worse and when and how to intervene to stabilise it. Recent studies have found gum disease

and even just long term gingivitis to be linked to heart disease, dementia and even certain cancers. Whether they are risk factor or just indicators of risk remains to be seen, but the link appears to lie in the individual’s genetic make-up and way their body responds to inflammation. Your dentist will recommend how to help control the disease; it is important to follow the recommendations and to monitor the condition.

Bulk billing CDBS available Family-friendly practice Extended opening hours Saturday availability

(Coffs Harbour & Macksville)

Children’s therapist PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & STAFF TRAINING FRESH DENTAL

2019

Grafton

Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

6643 2225

Coffs Harbour

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6651 1350

freshdentalcare.com.au 64 Coffs Coast focus

Urunga

46 Bonville Street

6655 5800

Macksville

1 Princess Street

6568 1335

/freshdentalcare.com.au

Genesis F I T N E S S

Genesis Health and Fitness Coffs Harbour is kicking off 2020 as the beginning of better, focusing on making the changes each individual needs to move closer to their goals. The beginning of better is our way of helping members take steps in the right direction, whether it be starting out on a training plan or mixing their training style up to keep motivation and results.

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he arrival of our new equipment has been super exciting for the team and members. Our fresh strength gear and new drop zone are standouts on the ground floor, and the Glute Drive machine has been a huge hit. The addition of ski-ergs and new cardio gear, including curve deck treadmills has increased the cardio area, as well as adding the functional space with a HIIT mill and new free weights, opening the second level to a variety of training options. Additional free weights and equipment are also available on the roof top training area and offer an outdoor training option with a view. With a big year ahead for the club, we are kicking off with our six week Coaching Zone Challenge, starting 10th Feb. Teaming with Commando Steve, this challenge will offer new training sessions and something a little extra

for our Super Sessions. Aiden and the coaching team consisting of Michelle, Alison, Mitch and Sam will be supporting our Coaching Zone members to reach their personal goals, as well as a chance to win $5,000. Michelle, our group fitness coordinator is super excited to launch a variety of workshops this year with the group fitness team, from specialised technique workshops to extend to wellbeing and nutrition. These exciting announcements will be made soon, with limited spaces available for members and guests. In addition to these workshops we will continue to develop our instructors, with new programs set to be launched this year after the successful Launch of Booty Hiit in December. Come and try Booty Hiit, a strength based program designed to shape and tone your legs with Hiit training to enhance your result. Due to the fast expansion of our membership, we are also looking to evolve our

ARTWORK PROOF - NOT FOR PRINT

team. We are looking for personal trainers and group fitness instructors, be it experienced or just starting out who have a genuine passion for health and fitness to become part of our team. If you want to be the best trainer or instructor you can be, whilst being mentored and supported to grow your skills, then Genesis is the place for you. At Genesis we offer extensive support and training for all levels of our team and understand the value the team brings to our membership. I have now been with the club over a year and can honestly say I am overwhelmed by the community and support I see in the club each day. The achievements of our members, whether weight loss, strength training or

confidence building amazes me daily. Stories from members who have tried a class they have been too afraid to try and members who feel comfortable in their own skin has really been an inspiration to me. I look forward to many more years working with my team and our members through their journeys and development. Whether 2020 is your year to begin your fitness journey or to step it up, Genesis Health and Fitness Coffs Harbour is the place for you. Contact us on (02) 6651 1172 or come on in and meet the team. We look forward to helping you reach your goals in 2020!

ACHIEVE YOUR FITNESS GOALS

WITH AUSTRALIA’S

GROUP PERSONAL

TRAINING SPECIALISTS Group personal training for all fitness levels P Personalised nutrition plans P

Cutting-edge workout/performance monitoring technology

P 24/7 Access to Genesis Health and Fitness P Access to two great locations – Coffs Harbour & Toormina P

genesisfitness.com.au | coachingzone.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 65

ARTWORK PROOF - NOT FOR PRINT

66 Coffs Coast focus

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

February 2020

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

A nice feeling of personal satisfaction can be anticipated this month. The opposite of feeling you need support from others - in fact, you’ll be quite chuffed with yourself and independent. You are very inspirational to others, as when you are confronted with challenge, you have the ability to rise above it and only allow it to make you more powerful. Garnet will enhance your passion for living.

You can expect good news regarding family matters. Home influences will bring opportunity to celebrate. A feeling of being on top of things can be anticipated, so make the most of this time and keep gratitude in your heart as strong as possible to receive maximum benefit from all the blessings you will be receiving. Rose Quartz enhances love; wear some.

New career changes are likely to challenge your comfort zone, but will lead to growth in your confidence. Throw yourself into new opportunities, as this will give you positive reflection time. You are much more able than you acknowledge; don’t judge yourself - just say yes and fake it until you make it. Amethyst is great for connecting to our higher qualities and life’s purpose.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Avoid stressing over finances, as this stress is blocking your ability to create wealth your current belief that there isn’t enough money is being lived out. By tricking your subconscious into believing there is more than enough, you will create that path by which to live. Look at how money always finds you when you need it and know this will always be the case. Citrine creates an abundance; carry some in your wallet.

Avoid stressing over finances; everything will be fine for the short term, as well as the future. Focus instead on how much you enjoy what you do and stay intellectually stimulated. You are good at keeping your word; make a commitment to yourself and stand by it. This will strengthen your will power and your confidence will grow. Citrine attracts abundance; carry some in your wallet.

You have recently been summing up life and have made conscious choices to move into the future with only positive attitudes and influences. Now you need to stand your ground and break any lingering habits that impede this choice, to ensure your happy outcome. You can have the strongest will when you need it, so don’t be afraid to use it. Clear Quartz enhances our energy, making choice easy.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

An opportunity to travel will present itself. Not only does it come at an opportune time, but you can also expect a balance of your mind, body, spirit and emotions. However, at the time of hearing this offer, you may be feeling financially vulnerable. You have previously learned how to stretch your money, so make your choice without fear. Ruby shatters fear; wear some for a few weeks.

Now is a good time to keep your thoughts productive and positive; find something intellectually challenging and throw yourself into it. A bored mind is a dangerous thing for a fire sign, so have fun learning. An important speech is looming. If you remain silent, conflict is likely to follow; if you stand your ground and communicate lovingly, all will be good. Turquoise is great for positive communication.

Your leadership skills are being drawn on for your recognition. Work changes will be requiring these qualities to be practiced more. By seeing what a natural leader you are, so will others, and career advancement will follow. Your ability to offer win/wins when arbitrating will be used more frequently also. Turquoise assists in recognition of one’s higher qualities.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Avoid being caught up in how you will be able to support yourself comfortably in the future; you have always been able to progress from one opportunity to the next with perfect timing, so see this as a gauge in how you manifest and thank yourself for being self sufficient. Avoid placing emphasis on negative possibilities. Turquoise sustains our confidence.

Avoid being caught up in feelings of abandonment or rejection; you are much loved and appreciated by all who know you. If you experience feelings of being unwanted, connect to your God belief for comfort. This influence will not be long lasting and good news will follow. Celebrations will be likely to be on the agenda soon. Clear Quartz will help maintain strong positive thoughts.

Adventure is in store for you. You can anticipate finding an opportunity that will benefit you enormously on your return home. To access the best of what this journey will present, it will benefit you to have a chat with your inner child. Ask what they need and listen telepathically to your answer. Then just think the answer to them. Herkimer Diamonds help record our joyous experiences for future memories.

Coffs Coast focus 67

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spacious, The More all new GLS ismore here.luxurious and more comfortab The life-sized SUV is now at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. Fit more into the all new GLS with seven seats as standard and extra leg room to fit the whole family. Make everyone comfortable with the THERMOTRONIC Automatic Climate Control with five individual climate zones. Plus, enjoy the All kinds of strength. intuitive MBUX System with voice activated commands and a Driving Assistance Package Plus for an in any circumstance. Theeffortless life-sizedand SUVconfident is now atdrive, Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. Fit more into the all new GLS with seven

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Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour 02 6648 3519 DL3461 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au F https://www.facebook.com/MercedesBenzCoffsCoast/ I https://instagram.com/mbcoffscoast 68 Coffs Coast focus

to

LEARN

Coffs Coast focus 69

focusinterview.

Rebecca GOODENOUGH Rebecca Goodenough is a passionate local teacher who is striving to inspire her students to enjoy their learning, and she is determined to always find new and exciting ways of delivering content to her class. She clearly loves her job and is an asset to our community.

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ey Bec. Tell us where your teaching career began. It started when I took on a teacher’s aide traineeship as my gap year, straight out of high school. I think I always knew I wanted to work in education, and I had such a wonderful time during that year that it assured me that I was making the right decision in pursuing teaching as a career. I started studying and whilst I didn’t love the process of studying, I was genuinely interested in the content and I found myself more and more motivated and inspired as my skills and knowledge started to develop. I couldn’t wait to get back into the classroom after each practical unit. While I was studying, I got into educating in any way that I could, and I started working at a childcare centre with preschool children. This sparked my love of teaching in the formative years. I also picked up teacher’s aide work whenever I could until I was qualified and could seek out work as a teacher. What drew you to wanting to become an educator at such an early age? I think for me, I just never really saw myself doing anything else. It just seemed like a natural next step. I have always had a love of learning and enjoyed working with children and helping people. I also have the inspiration of some of my own teachers to thank. I remember the deep impact of some of the little things they did to encourage, support and inspire me to learn, and a career in teaching appealed to my desire to have this same positive influence on other people. Some of your career has involved coming up with new and innovative ways of enacting 70 Coffs Coast focus

the curriculum for students. What’s the is where I really saw the benefits. Play based process of coming up with new ways for learning in a primary school setting can be kids to learn? adapted to be any open-ended learning We always try to plan learning experiences experience that allows children to direct their with the child at the centre. What would excite own learning and discover new things. It can a child to learn? How be as simple as using can we instantly capture games to practice literacy their interest and inspire or numeracy concepts them to want to learn? and allowing children The process starts with to direct activities in I ABSOLUTELY LOVE brainstorming, where we sport, drama etc. Play is THE MOMENTS collaborate as a group. incorporated in hands on WHERE CHILDREN This way we are drawing activities with concrete on the knowledge of materials in Mathematics ARE INSPIRED a range of people and or STEM (Science, AND EXCITED building on the ideas of Technology, Engineering ABOUT THEIR OWN others. and Mathematics) where LEARNING. We also try to be as children are encouraged creative as possible and to use given resources try to cultivate ideas to create and explore a without thinking about concept. the possible limitations or restrictions. It’s also Also, the playground at recess and lunchtime a highly reflective process - reflecting on what is an amazing place for learning to occur through has worked previously and how we can build on play! Children are interacting, negotiating, that, reflecting on what didn’t work and how problem solving and learning through every we can improve, innovate or adapt it so it will interaction on the playground. Basically, I think work better next time. It also comes down to there are countless opportunities to include play the passion and enthusiasm of teachers; there’s in education; you just need to be willing to look always something new and innovative out there for them. you just have to find it! Teaching at St Augustine’s here on the Coffs You started in preschool with play based Coast, your classroom isn’t like traditional learning. How do you adapt this style of ones. How does this differ from conventional learning to your current students? classrooms, and what have been the benefits I am so passionate about play based learning for the students? for children of all ages. Being early childhood At St Augustine’s we work in flexible learning trained, I have obviously seen the research and spaces, which are designed to encourage studied the theories that support play based collaborative and adaptive learning for both learning but I have also had the opportunity students and teachers. The design lacks the to see it in action in a practical sense, which conventional four walls and is more open plan,

allowing students to move around the space and utilise different areas for different learning experiences. The spaces promote collaborative learning, where students have opportunities to engage with and build relationships with all students and teachers in the cohort. The environment also promotes teacher collaboration, allowing teachers to observe the practice of others and draw on the expertise of the other professionals within the cohort. This is beneficial for the students, as it means the teachers are constantly reflecting and developing their teaching skills and knowledge. The flexible design of the spaces also allows students to move between various groups and teachers, targeting their differing levels of understanding of concepts. Tell us about your “golden teacher moment”. I absolutely love the moments where children are inspired and excited about their own learning. One moment that stands out is when I was working with robotics with Year One students, and the children were tasked with coding the robot through a path. A group of boys who were typically disengaged in science lessons were at the back of the room talking in hushed voices and looked very coy when I approached them. I discovered that they had attached a texta to the back of the robot and were using it to draw patterns on paper! The other children were so inspired by what their classmates had done, and this turned into a whole new learning activity where children were attempting to code the robots to draw pictures or write their names. I was absolutely blown away by these boys and how they had adapted and applied their learning in such a creative way! Thanks Rebecca.

THE EDUCATION CENTRE

We can help you get there! Planning for a career can start early. It can be reflected in the subjects that are chosen at school, or the extracurricular activities undertaken after school. If it’s about having a strong background in a certain subject, for example, you may learn the basics of law in legal studies from Years 11 and 12, if your chosen path is to be a solicitor or to work in that sector. You may work well in maths, especially geometry and measurement, if your area of interest is in woodwork or building. For nursing or medicine, biology and chemistry of course are the perfect way to start. Whatever your path may be, earning good marks in your exams can only make it easier to achieve. Each school provides excellent courses in all these subjects, but sometimes due to one reason or another, a little extra help can be just what is needed to get the marks you need, in a comfortable, supportive environment. Sometimes it’s just more difficult to concentrate with more people in a class, there may have been time off school for any number of reasons, or just the regularity of extra help may be the catalyst. Sometimes just the different tack from one teacher to another is enough to help see the light and build positively on previous knowledge. For whatever reason you choose after school tuition, there is a teacher or tutor to suit your needs at The Education Centre. Our dedicated teachers work with students to help them keep their work organised and up to date, assist with explanations if a point was hard to grasp, or show differing opinions and ideas needed to get the full understanding of a subject. An excellent way to understand a subject more fully is to explore further than has been explored so far - especially in science, but many other subjects as well. The consistency of regular after school tuition helps to build confidence, not just in knowledge of school subjects, but in overall confidence in themselves. After about a term of tuition, you can see the difference. Although one term makes all the difference to confidence and also marks, it is not recommended to stop tuition too early. If they have only just managed to stay up on the “tight rope”, don’t take away the support until they are more confident. For a small problem, look at one to two terms of tuition. However, if there are more complex needs, then one to two years could be more appropriate. Remember one hour per week will not fix three years behind in maths in one term. Wherever it is that you are going in your educational journey, we can help you get there! Special Interest Classes The Education Centre encourages students to “Love to Learn” in all areas, not just academic subjects. To this end we offer classes in Experimental Theatre, where students can take part in producing the play and the script themselves, along with deciding on costumes and sets and managing the production. Our tutor, Garth, also specialises in Monologue for Years 11 and 12, to strengthen skills required for HSC or Eisteddfod, and elocution ready for speaking opportunities. What a time to take on a research assignment about our local environment. Led by an environmental science student, the course, for Year 9 and 10 students, will culminate in a documentary (by the students) to be finalised by the end of Term 3. Stephen is the Mandarin teacher extraordinaire, providing an entertaining approach for children and adults to learn and enjoy the language and the culture of this unique country. The eloquence and organisation of Kiyomi makes learning Japanese more a work of art than learning a language. Jeff’s down to earth approach with German and French makes easy work with these languages. Not only languages and acting, but art as well. Art & About is a unique course on drawing and painting, in a variety of environments around town - especially for high school students. We are also bringing back Art and Craft for Years 3/4 and Years 5/6. Enquire now: (02) 6652 2222 www.theeducationcentre.com.au “Love to Learn”. Coffs Coast focus 71

Macca’s Junior Grants.

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Program.

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Coffs Harbour Junior Oztag

hat have your achievements been so far? Some of our teams recently played in the national championships in Coffs Harbour and will be playing in the state championships in February 2020. Why did you apply for this grant? The OzTag state event will take place at the C.Ex Stadium over three days in February 2020 16 boys and 16 girls from each age group have been selected to represent the Coffs Coast at this event. We applied for this grant to help families with the cost of uniforms and registrations.

How will this grant benefit you? And how do you plan on using it? By reducing the large cost of registration and uniforms to families for the state cup. What are your hopes and dreams for the future? Our hope for the future is for Coffs Coast OzTag to grow bigger and stronger at these national levels. Our club as tripled this season alone. OzTag is a fun and encouraging environment for kids to exercise and play. Who inspires you the most? Children’s happiness as they reach their goals and learn about sportsmanship and fitness.

Liam Kalanj

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hat have your achievements been so far? Liam was a keen player of football. He has played since he was five and then went on to play for North Coast Football in the youth National Premier League. This year alone in refereeing, Liam has achieved selection into the NNSW football referee TOP camp in June. He then went on to be selected as a referee at the NNSW Champion of Champions referee development camp in October. He not only refereed in this competition, but also played in it with his team. Liam was awarded referee of the month in May 2019 and then the honour of community referee of the year for North Coast Football for 2019. After such a wonderful recognition of Liam’s skill and commitment to football, he has just been selected to participate in the 2020 NNSW Youth Referee Academy. This will involve travel to Newcastle and frequent training to refine his skills and further develop as an official. Why did you apply for this grant? He is community minded, a trait that serves him well on and off the field and is eager to always improve. I also feel that it is important to shine the spotlight on the other side of sport - the officials that are needed to ensure we have a game. How will this grant benefit you? And how do you plan on using it? This grant will not only encourage Liam to reach for the next level in refereeing; it will

72 Coffs Coast focus

also be spent on transport costs, to ensure he can travel to Newcastle from Coffs Harbour to participate in the NNSW Youth Referee Academy in 2020. It would be a wonderful assistance in facilitating this next step in referee development for Liam. What are your hopes and dreams for the future? Liam hopes to become an international football referee. He absolutely loves the game and dreams of walking on the pitch at Anfield to referee a Liverpool match. Who inspires you the most? Liam is inspired by Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known as Pele. A player that was humble on and off the field, who also demonstrated amazing talent from such a young age. Pele was on the team that rose up against all odds to win the World Cup -now that would have been a match to referee!

focusinterview.

NICK Johnstone Nick Johnstone is the principal of Bishop Druitt College here in Coffs and was kind enough to speak with us about HIS CAREER AND WHAT KEEPS HIM SO HIGHLY MOTIVATED TO PROVIDE A HIGH STANDARD IN EDUCATION, SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF OUR COMMUNITY to be “world prepared” and ready for any path their life might take.

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i Nick. You are the principal here at Bishop Druitt College; how did you come to be the principal at BDC? I moved from Western Australia for this position in January 2018. I was previously the principal at Geraldton Grammar School and before that held various senior leadership roles at St Luke’s Anglican School in Bundaberg, Qld. As you can see, I have a passion for supporting regional Australian schools. In what ways does the principal’s role differ from a teaching role? Many and varied. You need to be the principal for your students, your parents and your staff. In an independent school like BDC, you also have a greater responsibility to the wider community as a role model and an educational leader. Unfortunately, modern principalship also has a good deal of compliance and other administration issues to address. People may not know that teaching was not what you initially intended as your career path. What were your ambitions coming out of your own schooling? I was originally a science, maths and PDHPE teacher after completing my education qualifications; however, before that I was keen

I have chosen K - 10 and K - 12 schools exclusively in my career, and this has allowed me to see my students develop into fine young adults and

on science, particularly were refugee families, in genetics, physiology and this was in 1992 and microbiology. I and the Bosnian War completed a triple was in action. I taught sometimes even return to their major in these areas at multistrand science to school as parents of the next Griffith University for my these students, and the generation of students. undergraduate science only unit they engaged degree. I also completed a in was a ballistic science Masters degree in science unit. Despite our education and ICT and have an interest in language difficulties and the obvious classroom historical theology and completed some posttension, the students passed the unit, and I graduate studies in this area. survived the prac. You have taught all over Australia. What BDC offers students the chance to go were some of your favourite locations to overseas and learn from experience. Why is teach and why? this so important to you personally? Tough question - I have taught in Baralaba At BDC, our mantra is our being world (west of Rockhampton) and in Bundaberg prepared. This means that students are prepared both in Queensland, Geraldton (WA) and now for the outside world of work or further study, in Coffs Harbour. They were all wonderful but it also means that our students are ready to communities with beautiful local resources; explore and experience the world around them. however, it is Coffs Harbour that is the pick In 2019, we had service tours to Cambodia and of the bunch. Coffs as a regional centre is India, two educational tours to Japan and one large enough to have a variety of activities and to the US to attend space camp. The college resources available, but small enough to be is a member of the global group of Round personal and caring. Square schools, and this allows our students You had quite the experience during your opportunities that most schools in our region teaching prac; can you tell us about that? would envy. Yes, my teaching prac experiences in Brisbane I was lucky enough to be involved in some occurred at a variety of schools, but it was travel opportunities as a teen, so I have always at Salisbury High (no longer exists) that was been supporting student experiences over more most interesting. We had students from the than 25 years. I have taken students to New former Yugoslavia in the same classroom. These Zealand, Fuji, Japan (five times), China (twice)

and Vanuatu (three times) as well as Cambodia in December. Out of all the years you’ve spent in the education system, what have been some of your highlights? The special relationship you develop with staff and families over extended periods of time. I have chosen K - 10 and K - 12 schools exclusively in my career, and this has allowed me to see my students develop into fine young adults and sometimes even return to their school as parents of the next generation of students. How has education changed in the time you have been in schooling? I think most workplaces have changed since the early nineties. Technology, Workplace Health and Safety, compliance, and the increase of paperwork are probably the most obvious ones, but kids are still kids. They still want the same things they did 27 years ago, and so do their parents. They want a safe and caring schooling experience, and they want to engage in their academic work and try to develop talents they can enjoy, whether that be in performing arts or in the sporting area or elsewhere. What do you find most rewarding about being a principal? The chance to make a difference in my community and the opportunity to build lifelong relationships with families. Thanks Nick. Coffs Coast focus 73

WITH BDC _education focus Photo: Chef Koochooloo

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P R I N C I PA L N I C K J O H N S TO N E

FISHERMAN’S CO-OP K E Y

E M P L O Y M E N T

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Key Employment’s Kids and the Power of Work “KAPOW” program has been running for seven years now and has assisted over 700 young people transition from school to work. Today we chat with the Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op about how hiring two young people from this program has helped their business.

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ow did you hear about Key Employment’s KAPOW Program? Our general manager had previous dealings with KE through their marketing consultant Liz Williams, who has always been so thorough in matching the right candidate to any of our positions. She contacted us and recommended two graduates of the KAPOW program, Jay and Oran. After a trial period, both young men proved to be an asset to our business, and both have undergone training in dealing with fresh seafood and preparation of takeaway cooked seafood. KE personnel are in regular contact with our retail managers and the employees, to ensure satisfaction from all parties. Why is it important to your business to be part of this program? In our business we require young energetic employees who are willing to undertake on the job training and be flexible with regular working hours. KE understand the needs of our business and the type of resources we require, which ensures they always match the right candidate for our needs. The program includes generous wage subsides, which allows us to trial employees for a specific

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period to ensure they have the aptitude for specific roles. How has Key Employment helped? Jay has started a traineeship and KE helped with all the paperwork, liaising with the training centre and just took all of the stress out of the process for us. They support both him and Oran fortnightly and are on hand any time we require support. They have paid us wage subsidies, which assisted with the initial training of both employees. They have also paid for work clothes and boots for both boys and helped with some equipment like anti-fatigue mats. Would you recommend giving someone from the KAPOW program a go? Without a doubt. We can support young people from the community in a really positive way, whilst benefitting our business. Where to from here? Both employees have now completed their trial period will be encouraged to remain in our employ. Having KE as a resource for employees has been and will be beneficial to the future needs of our business, and we fully intend to utilise their services and skills. If anyone is interested in hiring a KAPOW graduate, I would highly recommend contacting Liz Williams at Key Employment.

SENSE of COMMUNITY Schools, regardless of their affiliation, serve and build our local communities. They create and sustain that special feeling of belonging for families, particularly for those who are new to the region. Great school communities are warm and caring environments, and they let people know that they matter.

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ver the last few months, community to organise a fun event for the kids our communities in the Mid and parents. Bring back the joy to our region North Coast and further and use the school community as the conduit south have been under for this. We can revive our local communities, pressure never seen before, but we will all need to be involved. There due to the tragedy of the has been a great deal of negativity in the bushfires through the loss of life, livelihoods, press and online regarding how leaders have and property damage. This event has been at a or have not responded to the bushfires. I’m scale not witnessed before asking for some positive in our country’s history. action to strengthen It will not, however, our communities and to be the large scale rebuild the hope for our Schools need to be fun, commonwealth or state children about our region’s welcoming and joyous assistance that will rebuild sense of togetherness. places more than ever. I these communities that So what am I doing? am calling for your school were already under Clarence Valley Anglican community to organise a incredible stress due to School and Bishop Druitt fun event for the kids and the drought; it will be College have been parents. Bring back the joy local people in their local working together over to our region and use the communities that will the holidays and will be school community as the regroup. This month’s hosting a benefit concert conduit for this. FOCUS article is not so in Glenreagh, in the much about educational coming months, with trends or tips for parents the funds going to the and students. It is a rallying call to invite school communities of Glenreagh and Nana Glen. The principals, their councils and their parent final details are being organised at the moment groups to take a lead in this area. Schools and will be advertised in the local media need to be fun, welcoming and joyous places shortly. The whole community will be invited. more than ever. I am calling for your school Nick Johnstone.

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W I T H M AT T O S B O R N E F R O M T E C H A D D I C T S

SMART WATCHES Smarter A R E

G E T T I N G

This year’s hottest technology and gadgets has been announced at the CES 2020 Conference (one of the world’s largest conferences for new and innovative technology). With literally thousands of new and improved products showcased and set to hit the market this year, Smart Watches certainly drew their share of the attention.

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Tech Head

ated as the best wearable or choose to stay away from the beaten at CES, the Suunto 7 Smart track. Local offline maps and heatmaps Watch is sure to deliver! This will be downloaded automatically when versatile watch is not only you’re connected to Wi-Fi and charging. a Smart Watch, but also a You’ll always find your way and know the Sports Watch. Sports and life, combined! best training routes, even when you leave This is their tag line and rightfully so; with your phone behind or don’t have network the amazing combination of features and connectivity. benefits it will certainly give you the best of MAKES YOUR EVERYDAY EASIER both worlds. Be informed by your favourite apps, see Running the Google Wear Operating your next meeting or to-do list, easily check System and with 70+ sports modes, free calls and quickly view incoming messages offline outdoor maps, wrist heart rate, from your watch. 50 m water resistant Equipped with a faster, and packed with more secure way to Google features pay from Google Google Fit, Google Pay, activity tracking Assistance, Google Pay, Discover the world from Google Fit, Google Play etc., the around you using the free smart help from the Suunto 7 is one of the offline maps with terrain Google Assistant and smartest watches out details, trails and contour thousands of apps on there! Let’s dive into lines. Built-in heatmaps Google Play. some of these features for 15 activities, including READY FOR as detailed directly running, swimming and ADVENTURE cycling show you the most from Suunto: Suunto 7 is shock, popular routes, so you TRACKS YOUR water, and dirt proof; can train where others SPORTS ACCURATELY have trained or choose to the watch works in The sports features stay away from the beaten rain, mud, or snow. It of Suunto 7 are just track. one button press has physical buttons, away. Track exercise so you can use it accurately with 70+ with gloves on, and sports modes, GPS and it’s extremely bright high-resolution touch wrist heart rate sensor. Easily share results screen is protected with scratch-resistant in the Suunto app or on other major sport Gorilla Glass. The battery will give you a services. Detailed insights will help you train full day of smartwatch use and still have smarter - pushing you closer to reaching enough juice left for your daily workout. your goals. Alternatively, it can provide up to 48 hours INSPIRES YOU TO EXPLORE. of smartwatch use or up to 12 hours in GPS Discover the world around you using the tracking mode. free offline maps with terrain details, trails Whether it’s managing your daily and contour lines. Built-in heatmaps for 15 schedule, checking calls and messages or activities, including running, swimming and creating a breadcrumb trail while out on cycling show you the most popular routes, your next run, the Suunto 7 certainly earns so you can train where others have trained it’s title of best wearable at CES 2020!

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WITH CARL BENNETT FROM MERCEDES BENZ COFFS COAST

Motor mouth rating

9.5/10

Barry Hockey Accountants

GLS

The new year is a great time to reflect and to take control of your finances, to create a clear financial vision for 2020. Putting steps in place to become more financially comfortable will help give you more choices for living life now and for retirement. Steps for a clear 2020 financial vision are: Set Goals

Mercedes Benz

Setting long-term financial goals gives you peace of mind and security. When creating your goal, make sure you have “the end game” in mind. Everyone is at different stages in their life, which means set goals that meet your lifestyle aspirations.

SUV

Achievable Goals

The all new Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV has arrived at Mercedes Benz Coffs Coast, and what a vehicle it is. The new range is not only sporting a fresh new look, but advanced technology.

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wo models are currently available in the range: GLS400d and GLS450, with an AMG variant confirmed due to arrive before the end of 2020. Under the hood, the new GLS comes with a choice of two engine variants mated with a nine-speed 4matic (AWD) automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes the AMG Line exterior package, leather upholstery, seven seats, power-adjustable multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation, MBUX infotainment with navigation and live traffic updates, a 590 W 13-speaker Burmester sound system, head-up display, and four-zone climate control. Other highlights include a sliding panoramic sunroof, electric tailgate, power-closing doors, 21-inch five-twinspoke AMG alloy wheels, nine airbags, adaptive cruise control, active park assist, a 360-degree camera, lane-keep and lanechange assist, blind-spot assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Also featured in the new GLS is the MBUX multimedia system, with a 12.3” digital instrument cluster and 12.3” touchscreen centre display with FM/AM radio, Smartphone integration, USB, and satellite navigation. Also built within this system is a 360 degree camera, with a crystal clear picture. The all new MBUX system is a breeze to use; with more than 1,000 voice commands, by simply saying “Hey Mercedes …” you can control the temperature, radio station, interior lighting colour, navigation and even the sun-blind.

The exterior of the new GLS SUV has improved packaging, practicality and is larger overall in every outside measurement. Driving the new GLS SUV is effortless; I have driven a lot of vehicles over the years, and this would have to be my new favourite - especially with the airmatic suspension. You don't feel any bumps in the road, it has plenty of get up and go, even though it’s close to weighing 3 tonnes in GVM. The steering is so responsive due to the electric steering, not to mention the lock - it turns on a dime. Driver and passenger comfort is unbelievable and very roomy, with both seats having access to five different massage functions and 10 way lumbar adjustment; it's like sitting in a lounge chair. If you thought the driver and passenger had plenty of room, then wait until you sit in the second row; there is so much room here, you would fit three adults in the back and still have a mile of leg room, making this row feel almost limousine-like. The electric adjustment for the sliding second-row on both sides makes it easy to climb into the third row. The third row also has plenty of leg room, with USB ports and cup holders. The clever packaging of the folding third row means cargo capacity is tucked away, and a storage compartment for the cargo blind keeps it hidden when all seats are deployed. As such, the boot will hold 355 litres of volume with all seven seats in place, which is 20 L more than before, while at capacity will reach 1,470 L and 2,400 L with the third and second-row folded respectively.

When specified with the $1,900 towbar package, the GLS wears a 3,500 kg max towing capacity, and features trailer stabilisation technology. The GLS SUV is offered in 10 different exterior paint options, three leather colours, two open-pore wood finishers, and three different AMG alloy wheel designs, from the standard 21-inch rims to the optional (and huge) 23-inch package.

You want your goals to be realistic and for you to be able to reach them successfully. Breaking down goals into smaller more targeted areas allows you to have clear direction and makes your goals more attainable. Check In and Visualise It is important to revisit your goals every quarter, as this will support you to keep on track and to maintain focus. Creating a space to display your goals will encourage you to strive for success by keeping your focus goal in mind. Seek Help We often think we can manage our finances ourselves; however, it is great to get assistance from professionals such as accountants and financial planners. They can provide clarity and formulate strategies and recommendations which will help you achieve your goals faster.

GLS 450 4MATIC Technical Data 2,999 cc, 6-cylinder, 270 kW, 500 Nm Direct-injection, turbocharged 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission EQ Boost technology 4MATIC all-wheel drive MRLP $146,500 plus on roads

GLS 400d 4MATIC Technical Data 2,925 cc, 6-cylinder, 243 kW, 700 Nm Direct-injection, turbocharged diesel 9G-TRONIC ECO start/stop 4MATIC all-wheel drive MRLP $153,300 plus on roads OPTIONS Innovation Package Night Package Anti-Theft Package Energizing Package Plus Towbar Package Off-road Engineering Package 3 years unlimited km warranty & 3 years roadside assist. Service intervals every 12 months or 25,000 km.

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Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

Mark INSPIRATIONS PAINT

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i Mark. Tell us how you came to call the Coffs Coast home. I was lucky enough after looking for an Inspirations Paint Store to make my own after years of helping others grow successful businesses, that over two years ago my wife and I were told the Coffs store was for sale. We visited and fell in love with the region, so we packed up our family and moved from Newcastle to the beautiful place that we now call home; we can’t see ourselves wanting to live anywhere else. Tell us a little bit about your business, Inspirations Paint? Our business is family owned and operated by my wife, Tammie and I. We are part of Australia’s largest Paint Specialist Group, 100+ stores, and we are specialist amongst the group as well, having won 2019 National Store of the Year. We are continuing to grow our products range and create new innovative ways to service our customers. Inspirations Paint for me has always been a “way” rather than just a business. Having worked in and around the group for 15+ years, I pride myself and my business on providing customers both trade and DIY (do it yourself) with a place for their project needs. We genuinely care for your projects large or small, even tiny; from the slab to the roof off the deck and out on the boat we have you covered. If we don’t have it, we will get it for you. 78 Coffs Coast focus

We are the “PAINT SPECIALISTS”; we love your projects - it’s who we are! What trends are you seeing in your industry at the moment? At the moment the trends that are resurfacing are colour sealing driveways and paths, along with flake flooring garages and man caves, turning those concrete surfaces into something amazing. So, if you’re looking for some advice on the right products to use, pop in and see us. Having been in business for a while now, what do you think is your key strength? Our key strength is going over and above our customers’ expectations. We do this in a variety of ways - our service, our knowledge of products and being the store that can always get it in if we do not have it in stock for you. Although we have a large range of products and accessories available in store, there are times when our customers may require something that’s out of the ordinary, or we don’t stock it. We are focusing on being the one stop shop for all your paint, accessories and more. What marketing activities do you find most successful for your business? Both print and social media are working best for us, with the occasional radio and TV advertising campaigns. Print media gets us in the homes of the customer and they can relate to us on a more personal level, we feel. Social media enables us to regularly update them on things that are happening in the business, such as current trends, new or existing

WE KEEP OUR CUSTOMERS LOYAL THROUGH GOOD OLD-FASHIONED CUSTOMER SERVICE. THIS IS SUCH A CENTRAL PART OF OUR TEAM’S FOCUS AND TRAINING. WE ARE GENUINELY INTERESTED IN THEIR PROJECTS AND OUR CUSTOMERS FEEL THAT, WHICH IS WHY THEY COME BACK.

products and current in-store promotions. Also, it is a channel for them to share with us their projects too, which we love to see! How do you keep customers loyal? Do you have a loyalty program? We keep our customers loyal through good old-fashioned customer service. This is such a central part of our team’s focus and training. We are genuinely interested in their projects and our customers feel that, which is why they come back. Our customers aren’t someone to get in and get out as quickly as possible in order to serve the next customer. We love when our customers bring photos back of their completed project. It’s very gratifying to see the joy on our customers’ faces when they show off their projects. We also offer customers Paint Club. This enables us to record their projects and they don’t need to remember what colours or products they used on their projects; we have it all for them. We also reward them with special prices at the time of purchase every time once they are in our system. Popular home renovation TV shows like The Block and House Rules have really inspired many homeowners to renovate their own homes. Have these shows

impacted your business at all? They are a massive motivator in our business. We thrive on these shows, as it gets customers who were not thinking about renovating or updating their house paint to think about it. If you think it or see it, let us help you create it -

that’s our philosophy! Actually, Inspirations Paint featured in the latest House Rules TV show with our brand that Dulux manufactures for us as a group, “BERGER”. What would you say has been the best piece of advice you have received in your career so far? “Invest in your business and staff, embrace change and grow.” Lastly, living on the gorgeous Coffs Coast, what do you get up to in your spare time? Mountain biking is my latest addiction. There are so many great tracks around the Coffs Coast. I also get to go riding with my eldest son, who is five, which gives us some one on one time together exploring. We also spend a large portion of our time at the beach. We love getting our three kids outdoors for adventures and exploring. It’s what the Coffs Coast is made for. Thanks Mark.

All Office and Business at Park Beach HomeBase Does All Office and Business supply everything needed for an office? As our name suggests, we can supply all your office and business requirements, no matter what business you are in. We are the largest local supplier of commercial office and hospitality furniture, stationery, and office supplies on the Mid North Coast. We’ll save you time and money too - with low prices, fast and efficient service from someone who cares (and knows what they’re talking about) and speedy free, or low-cost, delivery. We also have financing options to approved purchasers. What makes All Office and Business different from other stationery suppliers? We don’t just sell furniture and office supplies - we help: • create modern and functional work spaces,

offices, and places of business; • improve business and staff productivity; • keep businesses running smoothly and efficiently; and • minimise work place health and safety risks. We measure our business success not only in terms of our economic performance, but also by our impact on the environment and community. Wherever we can, we supply products which: • are carbon neutral, non-toxic and biodegradable: • meet specified environmental standards • are manufactured from farmed materials, and • use refills in the original product. All Office and Business “Your Office National” is taking care of business ... every day ... in every way.

Kevin Hogan AN INITIAL $1 MILLION GRANT HAS BEEN PROVIDED TO COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCIL FOR BUSHFIRE RECOVERY. Much more money will flow once all the damage assessments are done. This is a fast tracked payment to get repairs underway. The funds can go into rebuilding infrastructure, hire staff to help with the recovery, or staging local events to attract more tourists and business to the region. Over the weekend we also announced an additional $76 million for mental health support in response to the bushfires. The program will provide immediate and ongoing free counselling and support to individuals, families and emergency services workers affected by the bushfires.

We have also committed an initial $50 million for wildlife and habitat recovery. Funding will be directed by experts along with local knowledge and expertise towards: Caring for and rehabilitating injured wildlife. Securing viable populations of threatened species. Controlling feral predators, other pest animals and noxious weeds that are a major threat to vulnerable animals and plants at this time. Scientifically mapping and understanding the true impact of these fires. Working with landowners to protect those precious remaining unburned areas, which will serve as “arks” and allow our native plants and animals to recover.

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Woman of the Year 2020 Coffs Coast International Women’s Day

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ive inspiring finalists have been selected for the 2020 Woman of the Year Award. The winner of the award will be chosen for her significant leadership and achievement in empowering women and girls. She will receive a monetary award of $1,000 for her project, sponsored by Coffs Harbour City Council and C.ex Group. A runner up prize of $250, sponsored by OneAgency, will also be awarded. International Women’s Day (IWD) falls on 8th March each year. The three major women’s groups in Coffs Harbour: the Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc.; BPW Coffs Harbour (Business and Professional Women); and the Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network (BWN) will be holding their very special breakfast on the morning of 6th March 2020, to provide the opportunity for girls, men and women to come together to share in the successes of our local women and girls. The following finalists will be presented at the IWD Breakfast, in the Grand Auditorium, at C.ex Coffs, Friday March 6th, 2020. AUNTIE KERRIE BURNET “Women and girls who usually wouldn’t look for help, will come to me for help and ask for advice.” Auntie Kerrie is the Executive Director of the board of the Galambila Aboriginal Medical service and a volunteer with the Custody & Victim Support program. She is proactive in many areas of the criminal justice system, seeking to improve the circumstances of 80 Coffs Coast focus

The International Women’s Day (IWD) Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award acknowledges and promotes the positive contribution of women to the community in the region of Coffs Coast. The award aims to recognise outstanding women working for the empowerment of women and girls.

women. She has initiated a weekly “Kids in the Park” program, with a meal for anyone who attends. She also regularly hosts afternoon tea and fun days for many disadvantaged young women and girls. KIRSTY CHRISTENSEN “To lead young women to grow and develop, to take hold of their futures and want to make a difference is a big achievement.” Kirsty is the business manager at Fresh Dental Care. Most new employees are young girls who come to the workplace with minimal work experience. She has identified the importance of supporting and encouraging them in both their professional and personal lives. To this end, she completed a mental health first aid course. She has found that this has been invaluable and advocates that all employers should participate in the program. LILY ISOBELLA “I believe that by empowering women, we are creating leaders - unafraid, powerful women who demand change … and stand for those who cannot stand for themselves.” Lily has worked with women who have been traumatised by sexual and domestic violence. She developed a parenting program called Courageous Conversations, which helps parents engage with their children in promoting safe and respectful relationships. Her latest unique women’s only program, Get Up Girl teaches women of all ages self defence and engages their sense of self worth and self esteem. “Get Up Girl” focuses on girls

awarded Rural Young Scientist of the Year. aged five - 14; in addition, the program also caters for women. She has given young rural women KAMLA RUTHNAM-WEBB interested in STEM a voice and standing on “I have a true passion for people, especially the international stage. Her achievements young women to do really well, to have a high have inspired other young women to enter standard for their life and to make an ordinary competitions, and she has been able to mentor life an extraordinary one.” them. Kamla works for the Bularri Muurlay You are warmly invited to the 2020 IWD Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation. Her role is Breakfast on Friday 6th to train young adults for March 2020, C.ex Coffs, management roles within to congratulate the the organisation. For the last eight years she has winner of this prestigious volunteered weekly at I believe that by empowering award and to celebrate women, we are creating the learning/homework and acknowledge the leaders - unafraid, centre for Indigenous achievements of all our powerful women who children. local women. Our guest demand change ... and Kamla also mentors speaker, sponsored by stand for those who cannot high school girls at ANZ Coffs Harbour, stand for themselves. her home and assists will be Mariam Issa, the girls with Centrelink to distinguished author of provide them with safe accommodation and provides care packages to Warrina. She would like to see everyone, especially young people, volunteering. EMMA SERISIER “Our future is dependent on managing our food supply …” Emma has excelled in her field of scientific research, particularly in the area of environmental rural issues. She was awarded third place in the world at the International Science Fair and Engineering Fair, held annually in the USA. In 2017 and 2018, she was

A Resilient Life. You will also be inspired by the scholarship winners for Performing Arts and the SCU female students. Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.stickytickets.com.au/k3clb The 2020 International Women's Day will focus on the theme “An equal world is an enabled world”. #EachforEqual Thank you to all our sponsors: C.ex Group, Coffs Harbour City Council, OneAgency, ANZ Coffs Harbour, FOCUS, Opal Cove Resort, SmartChoice Law and StickyTickets.

Women’s N ETWO RK B U S I N E S S

THE BWN HAS LOTS PLANNED FOR THE NEW DECADE, AND WE CAN’T WAIT TO CATCH UP WITH MANY OF YOU AT OUR FIRST EVENT FOR 2020 ON FEBRUARY 6 AT 7AM.

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Our fantastic panellists include: THEA O’CONNOR Thea is a personal sustainability specialist who works with leaders, teams and individuals to improve personal wellbeing and workplace productivity - two vital ingredients for long-term career success. our region. I’m the owner of Regional Roar and Cath Fowler A university science graduate with a Masters in Nutrition and Marketing - both digital marketing agencies. Dietetics, all her work is grounded in the latest evidence. As Kerstin Thode has moved into the position of Vice the world’s first “Naptivist”, Thea is all about embracing the President. She is the principal solicitor and owner of Smart powernap to boost energy and attention. Choice Law, focusing on family law and estate planning. CARLA MARCHANT Carla founded the Coffs Coast Health Sabina Ramana works as a Senior Club with her husband, Duncan in 2009. Accountant for PDD Advisory, making She had just moved from Canberra with a her a great choice to step into the one-year old son and was pregnant with role of Treasurer. their daughter. The GFC had just hit, so it Laura Humphrey works in the START THE NEW was a great time to start a business, right? executive leadership team for the DECADE BY TAKING Luckily, Carla operates better under a bit THE TIME TO CONSIDER local disability service provider Coffs of pressure, and she is now the CFO and WHAT YOU WOULD Harbour Support Services. She takes Group Exercise Manager. LIKE TO FOCUS ON TO on the role of BWN secretary. Carla will share her tips on how she IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH Lace Browning continues doing juggles two businesses that employ over 60 AND WELLBEING. great work as our sponsorship AFTER ALL, PEOPLE ARE locals, teaching a variety of group exercise coordinator. She is currently THE GREATEST ASSET classes, a small farm full of animals, riding employed at Tursa Employment and ANY BUSINESS HAS. and training horses, as well as socialising Training. Simone King rounds out the and volunteering in our community. committee and works as a Business BELINDA BROWN Relationship Advisor for ETC. Belinda is the Business Director and FEBRUARY EVENT Marketing Manager for The Physio Movement. Following a Join us for a panel discussion on Good Health = Good recent move to the Coffs Coast, Belinda is looking forward to Business. The networking breakfast will take place at being a part of the business community here in Coffs Harbour. Opal Cove on Thursday 6th February at 7am. There is no She was awarded the Emerging Business Woman of the membership fee to join BWN; simply purchase a ticket and Year 2019 in Townsville and loves to share, educate and inspire you’ll instantly become a member. others to live a life full of wellness, health and vitality. Outside Start the new decade by taking the time to consider of work, Belinda loves spending time outdoors with her friends, what you would like to focus on to improve your health husband, and two (very active) children. and wellbeing. After all, people are the greatest asset any You can purchase tickets to our February event by visiting business has. our Facebook page, or visit bwn.org.au wanted to share with you the amazing women who make up our 2020 committee, including a great mix of business owners and women in organisations around town. I’ve moved into the role of President and have loved getting to know so many talented women in

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Hibbards 82 Coffs Coast focus

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Why buying NOW is a good idea; what mums and dads are doing to help their kids become homeowners; what “rentvesting” is and how it’s helping first home buyers become owner occupiers; plus a rundown of the government’s newest scheme to help first homebuyers and what it means for us.

The housing industry is a massive driving force for the Australian economy. We in the industry of course provide housing, but also account for a large sector of employment - from the individual trades, suppliers, manufacturers as well as our employees providing an income for all families. Hibbards always has this as motivation when forward planning for construction, and we’ve taken responsibility by stepping up with programs to help home buyers and strategies for company growth, in order to continue with consistent production which supports all the families associated with our trades, suppliers,

employees and outsourced professionals. Plus, it stimulates growth for the economy within the regions that we build. And, we see evidence of growth in all our regions. Our western regions have seen capital growth of 6 - 8% over the last 20 years. Our regions don’t spike like capital cities, they consistently grow - making it an affordable and not-so-scary investment option. The returns are very pleasing to our investors. We have many investor clients coming from Melbourne, seeing great opportunity in regions like Dubbo and Tamworth (who are

part of the “evocities” initiative, successfully driving people from the city to these regions for a better lifestyle with access to big city facilities and income). Family homes in Dubbo are half the price of the cheapest properties in some Melbourne suburbs yet returning similar rents, making these regions extremely appealing for those wanting to add property to their portfolio. We know people living on the coast here in Coffs Harbour don’t necessarily understand the concept of moving out west, but a “treechange” is becoming more popular than a “sea-change” for capital city residents.

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Hibbards Increases to the value of property within our regions is fantastic news! But it also brings about the challenge of affordable housing. With incomes not always being able to compete with the increase in the market, there is a shortage of affordable housing. Hibbards believes that every Australian deserves to own their own home. We are doing everything we can to create opportunities in all our regions with affordable, quality family homes of exceptional value. We are spreading throughout regional NSW, to help people become homeowners. Currently in 11 regions, we place as the 26th largest builder in NSW (for 2018 - 2019) according to the Housing Industry of Australia, competing at a

high level with the large-scale builders in Sydney, Central Coast and Newcastle. In 2020 we are already on track to exceed the number of new homes built last year. And we are with certainty expanding into new regions of NSW. Our message to anyone who does not already live in their own home: if you already have the affordability, waiting to get in the market is wasting your time and money. Your current money (income and savings) becomes less meaningful to the market. The market is moving; if your money isn’t moving as fast or faster than the market, then that’s when you’re missing out. Finding out if you have the affordability isn’t as simple as filling in an online calculator or applying at a bank. It takes an in depth look at

your actual current situation, and an assessment of where you are at right now plus knowledge of the potential of where you can be within a certain period of time. This can then result in you becoming a homeowner. Hibbards excels above anywhere else at helping people become homeowners. It’s been Bruce Hibbard’s passion and vision since 1968 for Australians to own their own home and, create wealth and financial stability through homeownership. Let’s talk about why NOW is the best time to buy a home (because yesterday’s opportunity has expired). Feeling a loss about those “missed opportunities” (that in hindsight seem so

obvious) is a waste of your time and energy. However, doing nothing when you have the affordability to buy your own home right now, how do feel about that? Maybe that’s something to motivate you to take action. Not checking your current situation could mean that you are living in a home paying off someone else’s mortgage, when you can already afford to be in your own home paying off your own mortgage. What would you rather? Get assessed; it’s free. An assessment doesn’t take much effort on your part; plus, it’s not an application - it’s purely a start to get you into your own home. Purchasing a home of your own has many benefits, with the most obvious being the sense

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of belonging and the ability to personalise your living space. Yet the reason so many of us aspire to home ownership is not only due to emotional reasons, but financial considerations as well. So if you’re currently sitting on the fence about whether to buy or rent, check out these points and see how they factor into your financial goals. Stability Many people overlook the costs associated with renting, and one of the most often ignored is moving costs. In a period of five years it’s not uncommon to have to move three or more times. As a tenant, you can be asked to vacate the

property for various reasons, such as the property being sold, the owners wanting to move back in themselves, or if the property is in need of major repair works. The costs of finding a new home and moving into it can quickly add up, especially if you have to move repeatedly. Owning your own home eliminates this instability, allowing you to set down permanent roots. Dead money “Rent money is dead money”- you’ve heard it before and you might agree. Your hard-earned cash that you fork out each week is paying off

someone else’s asset instead of your own. Real estate trends have shown that even over long term loans of 30 years, property assets will generally produce a tidy profit, even after factoring in the initial purchase price, mortgage interest and ongoing maintenance and renovation expenses. You can work on adding value to your own home When you own a property, you can change and update it as you like. As well as creating a more comfortable home for your family, you can add significant value to your home through

additions/improvements, which can be used as equity to redraw or as profit when it comes time to sell. Weekly rent vs. mortgage repayments Mortgage repayments, with the current interest rates, in some cases can be very similar, the same or even cheaper than weekly rent payments. A perfect example of this is in Tamworth, where we have a ready built home by Hibbards there with repayments at the current interest rate being around $366 a week (subject to terms and conditions) and the same home plan within that area is renting for $380 per week.

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Can you rent and save? This is not an easy path, but it’s the path we are often forced to endure. Hibbards have solutions, and you could more easily and quickly become a homeowner. People think they should suffer and persevere and struggle their way through saving and trying to beat the market with having a full deposit ready to go, even before they allow themselves to look. But is suffering necessary? One way to get into home ownership is to buy a property you can afford now, even if it’s not your dream home. Your first home is not likely to be your last home. When it’s time to upgrade, you might have the option to sell the property at a profit to help with your next home, or keep it as an investment and use the equity on a new home. If you find that the only properties you can afford right now are in areas that don’t appeal

to you, have you considered buying one as an investment? Rent-vesting is where you buy in a location where you can afford, but still live where you want or need to live for work and lifestyle purposes. It’s a trend that is increasing in popularity and can be a great option worth looking into. It’s important to know that as a first home buyer, if you purchase an investment property, as long as it is not to live in for yourself then you are still eligible (as it currently stands within legislation) for the First Home Buyers Grant available in NSW when you go to purchase a home that you intend to live in. It’s possible to invest and build equity or sell for a profit, then use that for a deposit on your first home - with a boost coming from available government grants and or concessions. *This does not extend to the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. Terms and conditions apply. The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme - why

the government’s newest attempt at first home buyer assistance won’t make a dint in the effort for homebuyers within our regions. The first thing to note about this new scheme is the fact that there are only 10,000 spots available for this. To put that in perspective, there were 110,000 Australians who bought their first home in 2018. The scheme restricts location, house price, income for singles and couples as well as which lenders that they will allow you to get your loan with. The government’s First Home Loan Deposit Scheme excludes so many opportunities; who knows, perhaps they’ll be lucky to use the 10,000 they have available. In a lot of cases you will find that the lenders that can be used in this scheme don’t have the lowest interest rates available making it a waste of time; when you think you’re saving by not paying LMI, you could actually be

paying more over the life of the loan. Not being eligible for the scheme in no way means that you will find it harder to become a homeowner - it’s probably not even a topic of discussion that’s going to add value for those wanting to purchase their own home. Those that are in fact eligible to use this scheme, would have been able to purchase a home regardless. If you’re one out of the majority who aren’t eligible or will miss out, you can brush it off - it’s no biggie. All this in mind, we’ll tell you what we know about it anyway: The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme has been designed to help first home buyers get into the property market sooner. But how does it work? What is the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme? The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme begins on 1st January 2020. It allows first home buyers to purchase a property with as little as a five

Meet the team at COFFS HARBOUR

Call us to day for a Free Appraisal in sales or property management Our professional team is with you the entire way, achieving the best outcome for you is our motivation

Shane Hessenberger 0405 313 272 Licensed Real Estate Agent & Auctioneer

Donna Tozer 0431 006 183 Sales Agent

View our properties online

coffsharbour@harcourts.com.au www.coffsharbour.harcourts.com.au

Suite 1–15 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour Jetty 02 6600 1688

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Hibbards per cent deposit and without the need to take out lenders mortgage insurance (LMI). The government says this could save first home buyers as much as $10,000. For those newbies to home buying, Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) is a fee banks and other finance lenders charge borrowers when they are considered a little higher risk due to not having 20% of the home’s purchase price as a deposit. LMI is paid in a lump sum when you’ve bought the home, but usually is added into your home loan so it’s not really “felt” as a hit at the time of purchase (each lender varies, but our clients have found this to be the case.) How much is LMI? This varies due to things such as house price and mortgage amount required on the home, amongst other factors. It’s not something to be feared; LMI has been around since the late 1980s. Its role is to help more people enter the

market by helping them get loans. Lenders used to ask for a 20% deposit for a loan, but people often found it hard to meet this target. LMI was born so that lenders had insurance for defaulted loans, while borrowers had a way to access loans with smaller deposits. There is plenty of discussion about trying to avoid LMI. We believe, in our experience the importance of getting into the market and living in your own home far outweighs the fear of LMI. Don’t rely on it or let it affect your vision of home ownership - if you get it, cool, and if you don’t don’t indulge in your fomo. So back to the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme: In this scheme, the Commonwealth Government guarantees the difference between what the first home buyer has saved and the 20% deposit lenders usually require before they’ll provide a loan without LMI.

For example, if you have $45,000 to put towards a $500,000 home, the government would step in and guarantee the first $55,000 of your loan, so that it brings your security up to $100,000 (20% of the total value of the property), excluding government fees like stamp duty. In this sense, the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme works in a similar way to a Family Guarantee, but with the government playing the role of guarantor over the loan instead of a family member. The scheme can be used in conjunction with any other government grants, schemes, concessions and waivers you as homebuyers qualify for (e.g. First Home Owner Grant or stamp duty concessions if applicable). So, are YOU eligible for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme? To be eligible for the scheme you must be an Australian citizen who’s over 18 years old. If

you’re buying as a couple, it must be with your spouse or partner. You must also never have owned residential property previously in Australia, whether as an owner-occupier or investor. There are other requirements you’ll need to meet, when it comes to your salary, your home loan and the property itself. 1. Property requirements The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme can be used for both newly-built and established properties.There are thresholds on the value of the property. These vary depending on which state or territory you’re located in and whether you’re in a metropolitan or regional area. For the purposes of the scheme, a regional centre includes any centre with a population greater than 250,000. This includes the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, the Illawarra and Geelong. Some other regions have different thresholds.

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2. Buying as a single or couple You can qualify for the scheme as an individual buyer or as a couple. To be eligible as a couple, you need to be married or in a de facto relationship. Unfortunately, you’re not eligible if you’re buying with people you have a different relationship with, such as a parent or grandparent, sibling or friend. Both individuals must qualify as never having owned property previously in Australia, whether owner-occupied or as investment. 3. Salary threshold If you’re purchasing a home on your own, you need to have earned $125,000 or less in the last financial year (as declared in your ATO Notice of Assessment) to qualify for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. If you’re purchasing as a couple,

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you must have had a combined taxable income of less than $200,000 in the last financial year. 4. How much deposit do you need to have saved? To be eligible, you’ll need to have saved at least a 5% deposit. The government says these need to be “demonstrated savings”, which means you won’t be able to count any First Home Owner Grant money towards this amount. 5. Principal and interest loan Your loan usually needs to be a principal and interest home loan for the entire period of the guarantee. The exception to this is if you’re taking out a loan over both vacant land and to construct a new home. In these circumstances, interest-only loans are eligible while your home is in construction.

6. Owner occupiers only The scheme is only open to owner-occupiers, so you’ll need to be purchasing the home to live in it. 7. Do you have genuine savings? If you can’t demonstrate you’ve saved at least five per cent of the value of the home, you may not qualify under the scheme at all, even though some lenders may still allow you to borrow. With all that in mind, you might consider that you will not be able to rely on the government’s newest scheme to further help you in your journey to buy your own home. So what are some options that you have might have available to you, without relying on schemes like this from the Government?

The Bank of Mum and Dad. More and more parents (and grandparents!) are stepping in and helping their kids. A lot of first home buyers are turning to their parents and family for help, in most cases because of the equity available in their own homes. If Australian parents were a bank, would you believe that the “bank of Mum and Dad” would be the ninth largest home loan lender in the country? For many first-time buyers, a loan from their parents (the so-called “bank of Mum and Dad”) is crucial to gathering the money for a home deposit and getting approved for an eventual loan. Currently, it’s estimated around 20% of first-

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home buyers rely on some kind of loan from their parents when applying for a mortgage. The average size of that parental contribution is up to $70,000. It used to be even more common, the percentage being more around 60% of new buyers in 2018 borrowing money from their parents to become homeowners. In 2020 it’s making a comeback, as the older generation are seeing the importance of giving their kids a “leg up” so that they can make a start in the property market. But how do you make a start? Well, of course Hibbards has solutions. Hibbards Save2buy program. Our Save2buy program has helped people become homebuyers both with and without the new government scheme, and with or without

parental assistance. We help first home buyers AND non-first home buyers. Hundreds of people own a home today thanks to Hibbards and the Save2buy program. How quickly can you save for a full 20% deposit? 20% is what most people have in their head as the requirement before they can apply to buy a home. So, in one year, if you wanted to save a full deposit on a $500,000 family home you’re looking at $100,000 (which is around $2,000 a week that you need to put aside). Is that possible? Or do you think it would be best for you and your family to be in your own home, paying off your own home sooner? We make it possible with our Save2buy program.

What is our save2buy program? It’s where we get you into your own home sooner. How does it work? Your current situation is assessed. We work with you on a home that’s in your affordability range. We make sure that you and your home are ready in time, at the same time. Save2buy is a Hibbards initiative for home buyers where you can save time AND money while purchasing your own home! Everyone’s situation is different and unique. We assess where each of our clients are at with their financial position and show our clients how it’s possible for them to own their own home when they never thought it was possible. We use our vast experience plus a range of pathways available. Not everyone can do it straight away. It’s most important that you are able to service the loan (meaning that you can financially make the repayments). What is the difference between Save2buy and rent to buy? An example of “Rent to Own” is where the seller helps the buyer by allowing the buyer to rent the house for a period of time, until the buyer builds up enough equity to qualify for a bank loan and own the house. The difference between rent to buy and Save2buy is that Hibbards build the home and provide the service of guiding the home buyer through the process, so that they achieve their dream of home ownership. Finance is done

through registered lenders and the home is purchased just as though it was through a real estate agent. How can this be possible? If your income allows you to be able to make the payments of a house loan BUT you can’t catch a break to be able get the deposit and savings history, then Hibbards could still help you get into your own home. The main thing is your affordability. All finance is done through the registered lenders. A lot of people are held back because of their deposit we can show you how to use any Government Grants that may be available to you, adhere to the financial lenders’ rules and leverage any possibilites to help you get there. Hibbards have homes that are planned for construction many months in advance. If your affordability is there but you need more deposit, then you can put your name on one and we can work with you to make sure the timeline suits your situation. We have helped thousands of people become home owners. So, what’s the catch? You get your own home. The first step forward for anyone wanting to purchase their own home is to go to our website (hibbards.com.au) and fill in an inquiry form. The full inquiry form fast tracks your inquiry so you can have your affordability assessed. From there, you will be able to know where you stand with your current situation. With that knowledge, you can make informed decisions. *conditions apply.

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A M A N D A L A N G L A N D S F R O M M C G R AT H P R O P E R T Y

real estate

update.

Marketing when selling your home: how much should you spend? Marketing your home probably isn’t the first thing you think about when you decide to sell. When you sit down with your real estate agent, you may feel like you’re supposed to be an instant marketing expert.

Y

ou need to be aware of your options and make informed choices, but you don’t have to be a marketing expert. A reputable real estate agent with experience in marketing all types of properties can help you make your decisions. Listen to their advice about marketing your home and don’t be afraid to invest more in marketing, as you will get a higher return on your investment. Beware of the traps of free marketing. In some cases, real estate agents may do some advertising for free, but be mindful that free marketing never comes without a cost. If the agent is paying for your marketing, they will be more inclined to work on a quick turn over model, rather than securing you the highest possible price. If your property does not have the correct marketing, you will experience longer days on market and potentially reduced selling price. How much should you spend on marketing your home? You can choose how much you want to spend. However, with buyer behaviour changing and marketing becoming so important in securing the initial enquiry, there are a few key elements that should not be overlooked, such as professional photos, digital floor plans, prominent newspaper marketing and premiere presentation on realestate.com.au and domain.com.au You are potentially costing yourself money if you do not have these marketing tools. Keep in mind that you may not have to pay for marketing upfront. Most real estate agents will be able to offer payment plans and deferred payment options. Should you pay as little as possible,

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or should you try to reach the widest possible market? With 42% of my buyers still relocating to our area and often from more financially comfortable areas, it is hugely important to ensure every potential buyer knows about your property. Gone are the days of window displays and driving buyers around for a day. If you don’t make it past the buyers property searching in their own lounge room, you will not even make their short list. While marketing can seem like an expense, it is a sound investment. “The trick is to throw the widest marketing net to lure in as many potential buyers as possible.” Is the extra expense worth it? If you want to fetch the best price for your home, you need to reach a wider audience. Your best buyer might not be in your local area. Out of town, out of state and international buyers may be looking for an investment property, or perhaps they are relocating and want to find a home before they move. They often use real estate sites that list properties in all parts of Australia to find properties and compare prices. Relocating buyers may also be looking in a region not necessarily your suburb; a basic marketing program will not catch the eye of these buyers Creating competition through marketing. Those who spend more on marketing generally experience more inspections than those who spent less on marketing. This leads to greater competition between buyers and higher sales prices. If a $2,000 investment yields even $10,000 more when you sell your home, it is a good investment. The greater your reach, the greater your chances are of selling your home quickly and for a higher price.

Blue Ribbon Homes Blue Ribbon Homes is a locally owned company that has been building homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 30 years. We are proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our clients, built with hard work and dedication. Design Flexibility At Blue Ribbon Homes we pride ourselves on offering our clients unique custom designed homes that will cost you no more than building from our extensive range of standard floor plans. You may already have some plans drawn up, or maybe even just a sketch; either way, we are more than happy to quote on your plans and help develop your ideas. Free Site Inspection We can arrange a free pre-purchase site inspection of your land, providing you with the right advice to help with your land purchasing and building options. After discussing the requirements of your new home, we will develop your unique concept

plan. You’ll then be provided with a full and comprehensive itemised quote, you’ll see exactly what we have included in the price, which means there’ll be absolutely no hidden extras. Challenging Site? No worries! Challenging sites are our speciality. We can achieve the desired outcome for our clients at an affordable price. If it fits your land, lifestyle and budget, rest assured, we can build it for you. Stress Free Building Some people consider building a new home to be stressful, but at Blue Ribbon Homes we make it easy and enjoyable, as it should be! Our experience and skills will give you the confidence to know you’re in great hands, leaving you free to enjoy the exciting experience of building your new home. At Blue Ribbon Homes we can make your dream home a reality! Call us today for a chat on (02) 6651 8144.

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